Replacing Christian Braun in the Nuggets’ starting lineup is a multifaceted equation.
The fit and impact of a starting role player is arguably the easier variable. Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon will be good together, almost always, no matter who shares the floor with them.
The domino effect on Denver’s bench can be tougher for coach David Adelman to reconcile.
That went into consideration as part of the lineup decision that he announced Monday before the Nuggets hosted the Bulls: Peyton Watson will be the Nuggets’ fifth starter for now, as Braun begins a six-week recovery process from a severely sprained ankle.