The Denver Nuggets are facing a serious challenge as Aaron Gordon is sidelined for several weeks with a right calf strain. Gordon, a defensive cornerstone for Denver, was injured during a close game against the Raptors. His absence affects the Nuggets on both ends of the court, especially as he often takes on the toughest defensive assignments and has built strong offensive chemistry with MVP Nikola Jokic.
Without Gordon, Denver’s already shaky defense could worsen. The Nuggets dropped from 8th to 17th in defensive rating, and Gordon’s injury only compounds the issue. Offensively, his 15.4 points per game and high shooting percentages (52.9% from the field, 54.5% from three) have been vital to their system. Jokic, who is already logging more minutes and taking on more scoring responsibility this season, will face even greater pressure to carry the team.
The Nuggets’ depth has been exposed this season, with young players like Julian Strawther and Peyton Watson now expected to step up. However, the inexperience of these players may make it challenging for Denver to sustain their performance. With the team barely scraping by in early games, Gordon’s absence places a significant strain on their hopes for a strong season and a return to the NBA Finals.
