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Nuggets Announce Aaron Gordon’s Injury Status After Lakers Game
© Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The Denver Nuggets continue to battle in a tightly contested Western Conference playoff race while managing key injury setbacks. Forward Aaron Gordon suffered a right hamstring strain during a January matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks, sidelining him for the past month as he works through his recovery process.

Since the injury, Gordon has steadily progressed in rehab, recently participating in nearly all aspects of team practice. According to head coach David Adelman, Gordon has completed full-court scripts and situational defensive drills, taking part in everything except contact work.

The team is approaching his return cautiously, emphasizing daily evaluations and ensuring he regains full confidence before clearing him for game action. His return now appears to be getting closer. Gordon has been listed as questionable for Friday's game against the New York Knicks as he is on track to return for the Nuggets.

Before his injury, Gordon was playing some of his most efficient basketball since arriving in Denver. Through 23 games this season, the 30-year-old forward averaged 17.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists while shooting 50.9% from the field. His scoring average marked one of the strongest stretches of his Nuggets tenure, and he continued to provide reliable production in both half-court sets and transition opportunities.

Gordon’s value extends beyond scoring. He has been a dependable late-game option, knocking down timely shots and embracing the physical, hustle-oriented role that complements Denver’s stars. Defensively, he remains one of the team’s most versatile pieces, capable of handling on-ball assignments and switching onto perimeter threats when needed.

In his absence, Denver has had to adjust its forward rotation and defensive matchups, particularly in closing lineups. Getting Gordon back would restore balance on both ends of the floor and stabilize the Nuggets’ rotation heading into a critical stretch of the season.

Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon (32) © Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images

Denver’s long-term outlook with Gordon remains significant, particularly given his role in the franchise’s championship core. Since being acquired at the 2021 trade deadline, Gordon has evolved from an athletic complementary piece into a dependable two-way forward who fits seamlessly alongside Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. His ability to defend multiple positions, finish at the rim, and space the floor has made him a foundational part of the Nuggets’ system.

Gordon is under contract on a long-term extension, reinforcing Denver’s commitment to maintaining continuity around Jokic in his prime. When healthy, he stabilizes a defense that has struggled with consistency this season and provides playoff-tested versatility in high-leverage matchups.

From a broader roster-building perspective, keeping Gordon healthy is essential to preserving Denver’s championship window. His return not only impacts this postseason push but also reinforces the Nuggets’ strategy of surrounding their MVP centerpiece with experienced, switchable defenders who can contribute in clutch situations for years to come.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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