🏀 ESPN REPORT: Bruce Brown Returns to Denver Nuggets on One-Year Deal
DENVER — In a move that brings back a fan favorite and a key contributor to their 2023 championship run, the Denver Nuggets have agreed to a one-year deal with Bruce Brown, sources confirmed Thursday. Brown, who played a crucial role off the bench during the Nuggets’ 2023 title season, is returning to Denver on a veteran minimum contract, reportedly worth $3.63 million.
Brown, 28, has had a winding journey since leaving Denver just over a year ago. After capitalizing on his championship success, he signed a lucrative two-year, $45 million contract with the Indiana Pacers in 2023. However, his time in Indiana was short-lived. He was traded midseason to the Toronto Raptors, and later found himself briefly with the New Orleans Pelicans in 2024–25. Now, with his value realigned and Denver’s roster in need of reliable depth, Brown is heading back to the Mile High City.
Brown averaged 11.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game during the Nuggets’ 2022–23 championship season. His defensive versatility, hustle, and high basketball IQ made him a critical piece in Denver’s playoff rotation, often guarding the opponent’s best perimeter player and sparking fast breaks with his energy.
Nuggets head coach Michael Malone has long praised Brown’s toughness and willingness to do the little things—something the team missed during their 2024–25 campaign, which ended in the second round of the playoffs. “Bruce brought a level of edge and tenacity that helped us win a title,” Malone said during the 2023 offseason. “He was one of the heartbeats of our bench unit.”
With this signing, the Nuggets hope to recapture some of the chemistry that propelled them to a title just two seasons ago. Denver has made additional offseason moves, including acquiring Cam Johnson via trade and adding veteran shooter Tim Hardaway Jr., signaling a focus on bolstering their wing depth and offensive firepower.
For Brown, the return to Denver presents an opportunity to rejuvenate his career in a familiar system where he thrived. Rejoining two-time MVP Nikola Jokić and All-Star Jamal Murray, Brown is expected to slide back into a high-impact bench role, anchoring second units and taking pressure off the starters.
Brown’s return has been warmly received by fans and teammates alike. Social media lit up with excitement as word of the deal broke, with many praising the Nuggets’ front office for a smart, budget-friendly move.
As the 2025–26 NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on how this reunion unfolds—and whether the Nuggets can return to championship form with one of their most beloved pieces back in the fold.