Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon`s status for Sunday`s crucial Game 7 against the Oklahoma City Thunder is uncertain. He is listed as questionable after sustaining a left hamstring strain late in Game 6, interim coach David Adelman announced.
Adelman stated that Gordon participated in the team`s walkthrough and was fully involved in discussing the game plan. His availability remains a “game-time decision,” with the coach adding, “If Aaron can play, he will play.”
According to Adelman, Gordon “looked normal” during the walkthrough, exhibiting “good motions.” While hopeful for his participation, the team is also preparing contingency plans.
Adelman confirmed the team practiced with various players taking on Gordon`s typical responsibilities in case he cannot go. However, the primary hope is that Gordon will be available to handle those roles himself.
Gordon`s impact on the Nuggets` postseason run has been significant. He delivered a last-second dunk to secure a Game 4 win against the Clippers, hit a game-winner in the Thunder series opener, and a clutch three-pointer to force overtime in Game 3. His unique ability to contribute effectively on both offense and defense is difficult for any other player on the roster to replicate.
Denver is currently listed as an eight-point underdog on DraftKings. This point spread could potentially shift depending on whether Gordon is cleared to play.
If Gordon is available, Adelman confirmed he will be in the starting lineup. Should he be sidelined, Christian Braun and Peyton Watson will need to elevate their game, particularly in initiating offensive actions when Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray are not handling the ball.
Adelman acknowledged Gordon`s specific strengths in initiating plays but expressed confidence in other players who have practiced taking on those roles. He framed the situation as an “opportunity” for others if Gordon is unable to play, stating, “we have trust in those guys.”
Adelman appreciated the extra day between Game 6 and Game 7, noting it provides additional time for Gordon`s potential recovery and allows the team more preparation time for the upcoming challenge.
The coach emphasized the need for rest when facing a historically strong opponent like the Thunder, citing their impressive record (68 wins, significant point differential, potentially 75 total wins by this point). “We need the rest to play a team this historically good,” he remarked.
The Nuggets are not considered a deep team and have minimal margin for error in this matchup. If Gordon is unavailable or not playing at full capacity, the team will face a significant uphill battle in Game 7.
Jasper Hawthorne