Aaron Gordon's Hamstring: Will He Play Nuggets' Game 7?

David

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Post on May 18, 2025

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Aaron Gordon's Hamstring: Will He Play in the Nuggets' Crucial Game 7?

The Denver Nuggets are on the brink of their first Western Conference Finals appearance since 2009, but a looming question hangs heavy over their Game 7 clash against the Phoenix Suns: will Aaron Gordon be able to play? The versatile forward suffered a hamstring injury in Game 5, casting a significant shadow over the Nuggets' championship aspirations. His potential absence would be a devastating blow to Denver's playoff run.

Gordon's importance to the Nuggets extends beyond simple box scores. His defensive tenacity, rebounding prowess, and ability to switch seamlessly across multiple positions make him an indispensable part of Michael Malone's rotation. Losing him would severely impact their ability to contain Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, two of the league's most potent offensive forces.

The Severity of the Injury Remains Unclear

While the Nuggets have remained tight-lipped about the exact nature and severity of Gordon's hamstring injury, reports suggest it's a significant concern. He missed Game 6 entirely, a game the Nuggets ultimately won, highlighting both their resilience and the potential impact of his absence. The team's medical staff will undoubtedly be working around the clock to assess his progress and determine his availability for the pivotal Game 7.

The next few days will be crucial in determining Gordon's status. Will he be able to participate in practice? Can he manage the pain and strain associated with high-intensity NBA basketball? These questions will dictate his Game 7 participation and significantly influence the Nuggets' game plan.

What Happens if Gordon Can't Play?

If Gordon is unable to suit up for Game 7, the Nuggets will face a significant challenge. His absence would necessitate adjustments across the board. Expect to see increased minutes for players like Bruce Brown and Jeff Green, who would need to step up and fill the void left by Gordon's defensive intensity and offensive versatility. The team's overall strategy might also shift, potentially relying more heavily on Nikola Jokic's offensive dominance.

The Suns, meanwhile, will undoubtedly be monitoring Gordon's status closely. His absence would significantly alter their game plan, potentially allowing them to exploit weaknesses in the Nuggets' lineup. Their offensive approach might become more aggressive, knowing they are facing a potentially depleted Denver frontcourt.

The Importance of Game 7

Game 7 itself represents a monumental opportunity for both teams. For the Nuggets, it's a chance to secure a franchise-defining victory and advance to the next round of the playoffs. For the Suns, it's a last stand to avoid elimination and extend their season. The pressure is immense, and Gordon's presence (or absence) will undoubtedly play a major role in determining the outcome.

Looking Ahead:

The coming days will be filled with speculation and anxious waiting for Nuggets fans. The official word on Aaron Gordon's status will be closely scrutinized, and the impact of his injury will undoubtedly shape the narrative of this crucial Game 7 matchup. Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds. We'll keep you informed with the latest news on his condition and potential participation. This is a story that will continue to unfold, impacting not only the Nuggets’ season, but the entire NBA landscape.