The Denver Nuggets are facing a setback as forward Aaron Gordon will be sidelined for an indefinite period of time due to a strained right calf, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. The extent of the injury and a specific timeline for his return are still unknown at this time.
Gordon sustained the injury during the Nuggets’ recent victory over the Toronto Raptors at Ball Arena. Despite dealing with inflammation in his calf, he started the game but had to leave after just four minutes following a charge call. He managed to walk off the court on his own but did not return to the game, finishing with three points and one assist.
“Honestly, I was a little surprised he played last game,” Nuggets coach Michael Malone commented after the win against the Raptors, via the Denver Post. “The schedule has not been overly kind to us early. 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 that.”
With an average of 15.4 points and 6.7 rebounds in seven games this season, Gordon has been a valuable asset to the team. Having recently signed a lucrative contract extension worth $133 million, the 29-year-old forward played a crucial role in the Nuggets’ success last season, helping them secure their first-ever title in 2023.
The Nuggets, who clinched their second consecutive victory on Monday, currently hold a 4-3 record for the season. In addition to Gordon, the team was also without Jamal Murray, who is in concussion protocol. The duration of Murray’s absence remains uncertain.
Next up, Denver will face the Oklahoma City Thunder at home on Wednesday night.