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Denver Nuggets Face Crisis as Aaron Gordon’s Injury Jeopardizes Game 7 Against Thunder

NBA access_alarms2025-05-18 21:52:43 visibility4 text_decrease title text_increase

Table of Contents

Playoff Dreams in Peril

The Denver Nuggets' championship hopes now rest on uncertain ground following Aaron Gordon's hamstring injury during Game 6. This critical setback comes just days before the decisive Game 7 against the Oklahoma City Thunder on May 19 - a situation that could dramatically alter the series outcome.

Denver Nuggets Face Crisis as Aaron Gordon's Injury Jeopardizes Game 7 Against Thunder

Understanding the Injury

Gordon suffered the left Hamstring Strain during a crucial Game 6 possession scramble. While initial reports suggested minor damage, team medical staff confirmed a legitimate strain. Sports medicine specialists indicate:

Grade 1 strain: 1-3 week recovery
Grade 2 strain: 3-6 week recovery (similar to Stephen Curry's 2025 injury)

With Game 7 occurring within days, Gordon's participation appears doubtful at best.

Why Gordon Matters

The forward's potential absence creates significant challenges:

Offensive Impact

Series averages tell the story:

14.5 points per game
9.2 rebounds
45% three-point accuracy

Defensive Leadership

Gordon's defensive contributions include:

11 opponent shots disrupted per game
Holding Thunder stars to below-average efficiency

Team Adjustments Needed

Without Gordon, the Nuggets must compensate through:

Increased responsibility for Nikola Jokić (current playoff averages: 28.4 points, 12.1 rebounds)
Jamal Murray overcoming recent shooting struggles
Developing bench players like Christian Braun stepping up

Historical Precedent

Recent NBA history shows teams facing similar challenges:

2018 Rockets: Lost series after Chris Paul's hamstring injury
2025 Warriors: Eliminated following Stephen Curry's strain

Game 7 Implications

This winner-take-all matchup carries enormous consequences:

Potential franchise-defining comeback for Denver
Risk of championship window closing if eliminated
Thunder's opportunity for first conference finals since 2016

Final Analysis

While Gordon's potential absence creates significant obstacles, Denver's championship pedigree gives them fighting chance. The team's ability to adapt rotations and maximize Jokić's unique skillset will determine if they can overcome this crisis and keep their title defense alive.