Nuggets’ Christian Braun Reveals Severe Ankle Injury, Out for 7 Weeks
Christian Braun of the Denver Nuggets is facing a challenging recovery from a severe ankle injury. This setback has kept him sidelined for seven weeks, marking a significant break in his basketball career.
Injury Details
On November 12, during a game against the Los Angeles Clippers, Braun sustained a left ankle sprain caused by an awkward step from James Harden. Initially deemed a sprain, further examination revealed ligament damage.
- Injury Type: Left ankle sprain
- Injury Date: November 12
- Duration of Recovery: 7 weeks
- Games Missed: 23 consecutive games
Rehabilitation Process
During his recovery, Braun faced considerable challenges. He wore a boot for three weeks and used crutches for an additional two. Braun remarked, “The ligaments in my ankle were ripped,” highlighting the severity of his condition.
Despite these hurdles, Braun reported feeling positive about his conditioning upon his return. He expressed a strong desire to contribute to his team’s success.
Return to Play
Braun recently returned to the court for the Nuggets, playing 24 minutes in a game against Brooklyn and 29 minutes against Boston. However, his performance has been a work in progress. He scored only eight points in those two games combined, indicating he is still regaining his offensive form.
Despite his struggles, Braun’s defensive skills are vital for the team. The Nuggets currently rank 29th in the league for defense, a statistic compounded by injuries that have sidelined stalwarts such as Nikola Jokic.
Team Challenges and Outlook
The Nuggets are grappling with multiple injuries this season, which Braun described as unprecedented in his experience. He has previously achieved success, winning an NCAA championship with Kansas and an NBA title with the Nuggets, but this season presents unique obstacles.
“We just want to get back whole,” Braun stated, emphasizing the team’s commitment to staying competitive while key players recover.
Conclusion
As Braun continues his rehabilitation, he remains optimistic about the team’s potential once they return to full strength. The Nuggets have the talent necessary to navigate this challenging stretch and aim for success in the upcoming games.
