Aaron Gordon has hamstring strain, Game 7 status in doubt

Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon has been diagnosed with a left hamstring strain, reports ESPN’s Shams Charania. This leaves his availability for Sunday’s Game 7 against the Thunder up in the air.

Gordon has been a crucial piece of the Nuggets’ playoff run, hitting clutch shots in multiple games and playing excellent, versatile defense throughout the postseason. In this series, he is averaging 14.5 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game while shooting 45.2% from three.

With Michael Porter Jr. already struggling with a shoulder injury and Jamal Murray needing an IV to replenish his fluids going into Game 6, the Nuggets have dealt with plenty of health-related adversity throughout this series, but if Gordon is unable to suit up, it will be their biggest challenge yet.

Julian Strawther had a big Game 6 for Denver but is undersized to step into a forward role. Peyton Watson has struggled to contribute offensively, but his length and athleticism has provided some good moments on defense. If Gordon is limited, Watson may be called upon to step into a bigger role.