Offensive Surprises in the NBA: Malik Beasley and Christian Braun’s Breakout Seasons

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Originally discussed on the expanded segment of Harrison Talks Pod, where we explored 4 players having surprising seasons.



Malik Beasley and Christian Braun Shaking Up the League

While defense has been a huge spotlight of this segment, this season has seen some surprising offensive performances that have truly shaken things up. Malik Beasley and Christian Braun are two players who have emerged from unexpected places, proving that offensive firepower can come from anywhere. Let’s explore how these two players have made huge strides and surprised the league with their performances.

Malik Beasley - The NBA’s Biggest Surprise Shooter

Malik Beasley has turned heads this season with his incredible shooting ability, making him one of the NBA’s most dangerous offensive weapons. While initially seen as a potential trade piece for the Pistons, Beasley has not only secured a pivotal role but has also redefined what it means to be a bench shooter.

Beasley has been lights out from beyond the arc, currently leading the league with 244 made three-pointers at an impressive 43% shooting efficiency. He’s on track to join the ranks of the game’s elite shooters like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and James Harden, with a projected total of over 300 three-pointers this season. His shooting has been a game-changer for the Pistons, providing them with much-needed spacing and offensive punch.

What’s even more impressive is that Beasley has embraced a bench role, averaging 15.7 PPG in limited minutes. He’s helped Detroit string together a solid win streak, and his improved defense and playmaking have shown he’s not just a one-dimensional player. Standout performances including his 26-point game against Boston and steady play have placed him firmly in the conversation for 6th Man of the Year, though his odds to win the award have shifted as his role continues to grow.

In any case, Beasley’s rise from role player to offensive star is one of the most surprising stories of the season, and he's quickly becoming a crucial part of Detroit’s offensive system.

Christian Braun - The Nuggets’ Unexpected X-Factor

Christian Braun’s breakout season is another surprise in the NBA this year. After entering the league as a solid role player, Braun has emerged as a key contributor for the Denver Nuggets, taking on a starting role and showing that he’s capable of more than just being a supporting player.

Braun’s scoring surge has been one of the biggest stories of the season. Averaging 14.9 PPG, he has nearly doubled his output from last year. His shooting efficiency has been outstanding, with a 57.8% field goal percentage and a 66% true shooting percentage. Braun has become a consistent scoring threat, tallying 19 straight games in double figures, with multiple games over 20 points.

But Braun isn’t just an offensive dynamo—he’s making his presence felt on both ends of the floor. With an improved average of 5.1 RPG and 2.2 APG, Braun has been instrumental in the Nuggets’ fast break offense and transition play. His two-way impact has made him one of the most valuable players on the team, and he’s been a perfect fit within Denver’s offensive system. Playing off Nikola Jokić’s playmaking, Braun has shown he can make quick, smart decisions and excel in his role.

With his impressive growth this season, Braun has quickly become a key piece in the Nuggets’ championship aspirations. His well-rounded game makes him a potential candidate for Most Improved Player, and he’s solidifying his place as one of the league’s most exciting young talents.

Looking Ahead:

Both Malik Beasley and Christian Braun have been pleasant surprises this season. Beasley’s ability to shoot at an elite level and Braun’s breakout as a scoring and all-around contributor have made them two players to watch in the coming months. As the season progresses, it’ll be interesting to see if Beasley can maintain his historic shooting pace and if Braun can continue to play a pivotal role in Denver’s title hopes.

What do you think?
Can Malik Beasley keep up his incredible shooting pace, or will defenses adjust? Can Christian Braun play a big role that helps propel the Nuggets to a deep playoff run? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

For more on these players and other surprising NBA seasons, check out the expanded segment on Harrison Talks Pod.

Thanks for reading!

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