Christian Braun addressed the Denver Nuggets’ handling of Collin Gillespie during his recent appearance on The Old Man and the Three podcast with Cam Johnson and Tommy Alter. He criticized the team’s decision to let Gillespie go in free agency, highlighting how the Nuggets overlooked a valuable player despite Gillespie’s proven abilities. Braun’s comments bring to light questions about the Nuggets’ roster choices as they navigate the current NBA season.
Braun Reflects on His Role and Gillespie’s Overlooked Talent
During the podcast, Braun shared insights about his own career path, noting how Kansas never designed plays specifically for him, yet he found ways to contribute and score. This adaptability has carried over to his time with the Nuggets. When asked by Tommy Alter whether experience reveals which younger players understand their roles and fit on NBA teams, Braun pointed to Gillespie as a clear example of someone who was undervalued.
I think if you watch certain people, you can see the intangibles, the little things… Like, some of those guys, I think, get overlooked; maybe you overthink it… Collin Gillespie is a perfect example of overthinking. That kid, when he was playing with us, was really good. He was really good in college. He plays well at every level. He shoots it well at every level. You just overthink it, maybe he’s too small.
— Christian Braun, Guard
The Nuggets’ Decision and the Value of Gillespie’s Skills
Braun’s remarks suggest the Nuggets may have misjudged Gillespie’s potential impact, possibly due to concerns about his size or readiness for a significant role on a championship contender. The Nuggets allowed Gillespie to become a free agent in 2024, and he subsequently signed with the Phoenix Suns. This move stands in contrast to their recent signing of Tyus Jones, who joined Denver late in the season as a backup point guard.
Jones, while providing some stability off the bench, is not expected to see significant playing time. His role serves mostly as insurance since star guard Jamal Murray is currently sidelined. Jones’ performance this season has been underwhelming compared to Gillespie’s upward trajectory. While Jones struggled with shooting efficiency and low scoring contributions during his time with the Magic and Mavericks, Gillespie has posted career-best numbers.
Comparing Backup Guards: Gillespie vs. Jones
Collin Gillespie’s current statistics highlight his growing importance on the court: he averages 13.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, while shooting an efficient 43.3% from the field and an impressive 42.3% from three-point range on 7.3 attempts per game. These numbers indicate a player capable of making sustained contributions on offense and defense at a high level.
In contrast, Tyus Jones has recorded just 3.0 points and 2.4 rebounds per game this season, with shooting percentages of 34.2% from the field and 29.4% from beyond the arc. His decline from once being considered one of the best backup point guards in the league to a marginal role player underscores the difference in potential between the two.
The Impact of Losing Gillespie on Denver’s Championship Hopes
Braun’s critique emphasizes how having Gillespie on the Nuggets’ roster could have strengthened their support system, especially in the absence of Jamal Murray. Gillespie’s ability to play at multiple levels and contribute consistently might have provided Denver with a valuable edge in their pursuit of another NBA title. Instead, the Nuggets must rely on less impactful options like Jones while Gillespie continues to develop elsewhere.
Looking ahead, Gillespie appears poised for a bigger role and a significant contract this summer, reflecting his growth and rising value. For the Nuggets, the decision to part ways with him may be a missed opportunity to bolster their depth and long-term competitiveness. Braun’s remarks serve as a reminder to NBA teams of the importance of recognizing talent beyond physical attributes and immediate reputation.
