Let’s not play dumb, Braun is obviously the better player with a higher upside. But Keon is a better fit next to Jokic and what the nuggets need in the starting lineup for defense. With Keon and Cam Johnson on the wings, the starting 5 would be elevated to a much higher level purely based off defensive improvements and shooting.

Kings get a potential young star and shouldn’t be too worried about fits right now since they won’t be contending for anything this year. They should all be about getting young talent. If Sacramento landed Kuminga and Braun, they’d be off to an elite start in getting young talent. Kuminga, Braun, and Keegan Murray would be a nice core to build around and you finally give yourself a real timeline. If they moved Lavine, DeMar and Sabonis to build around these guys, they’d actually have a real chance at being successful a couple years from now rather than being stuck in the purgatory they’re in now. Keon Ellis just doesn’t have the star upside that Braun does and isn’t a core piece you build around. Keon is a certified role player while CB was averaging 15ppg as the 5th option on a championship contending roster. And averaging 21ppg in elimination games this year. He also already has tons of playoff experience and even championship experience playing in the NBA finals. Hes not some young, risky project. Hes already proven himself.