The Denver Nuggets have suffered a major setback as forward Aaron Gordon is set to miss multiple weeks due to a strained right calf, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.
Details surrounding the severity of Gordon's injury remain unclear, but the announcement adds urgency to the Nuggets' season. Gordon left the game against the Toronto Raptors on Monday night early, after only four minutes of play. The Nuggets went on to win the game 121-119, but the victory was overshadowed by the injury.
Initially, Gordon had appeared healthy as he took the court, but he was called for a charge shortly after, walked off on his own, and did not return. He finished the night with three points and one assist. "Honestly, I was a little surprised he played last game," Nuggets head coach Michael Malone commented, referencing the challenging schedule Colorado has faced recently. "I think he’s dealing with just bumps and bruises, nothing long-term. But I’ll have to talk to our training staff to get an update on it."
The 29-year-old Gordon has been key for the Nuggets this season, averaging 15.4 points and 6.7 rebounds across seven games. His importance to the team cannot be overstated, especially following his signing of a four-year, $133 million contract extension last month. Gordon had been pivotal to the Nuggets' success, contributing to their first NBA championship title last season.
Adding to the Nuggets' concerns, they also played without star guard Jamal Murray, who was unavailable due to concussion protocol. The team now faces uncertainty as they navigate the upcoming games without two of their central figures.
Despite the challenge, the Nuggets managed to secure their second consecutive victory with this win against the Raptors, improving to 4-3 on the season. The impact of both Gordon and Murray's absences will be felt as the team prepares to host the Oklahoma City Thunder next.
Denver's coaching staff will need to reevaluate their strategies and rotations moving forward as they tackle the added challenge of competing without two key players. The upcoming games will test the depth and endurance of the Nuggets, who are trying to maintain momentum at the start of the season.
