Aaron Gordon is going to be out for “multiple weeks” following a right cal strain he suffered against the Toronto Raptors on Monday.
On the latest episode of Locked On Nuggets, Matt and I discussed the implications for the Nuggets and how they can survive without one of their most reliable players.
Here are five points we made:
- Defensive Pressure and Rim Protection: Gordon is a versatile defender who often takes on challenging matchups, guarding opposing frontcourt players very well. His absence leaves a gap in the Nuggets’ defense, especially in rim protection and defending athletic scorers. The team’s younger players will be forced to step up, and while Peyton Watson and Zeke Nnaji may be ready for the challenge, it’s unlikely they will be as consistent as Gordon across different matchups.
- Increased Offensive Workload: Gordon’s absence also impacts the offensive end, where he has become the Nuggets “Jack-of-All-Trades” option in every scenario. Need a basket inside? Gordon can create it for himself or mind meld with Nikola Jokic on a backdoor cut. Need an assist? Gordon often pays back Jokic while also showcasing strong court vision. Need a three? Suddenly, Gordon has become reliable on that front. Asking any of Denver’s players to fill in those gaps could be challenging.
- Consistency from the Bench: Denver’s bench rotation will need to adjust significantly, which could create inconsistency as roles shift. Peyton Watson is likely to start, and that means more minutes for Hunter Tyson, Zeke Nnaji, and others behind him. These are uncharted waters for Michael Malone and the Nuggets. For a team aiming for postseason success, these upcoming games are critical for building bench depth, yet they also pose the risk of potential growing pains and losses.
- Maintaining Team Chemistry: Gordon’s absence is a reminder of the physical toll of an NBA season, something that can put the entire team on edge. For the Nuggets, keeping morale high will be essential early, especially as young players take on larger roles. Veterans like Jokic and Jamal Murray must support and motivate, helping develop confidence in those around them.
- Long-Term Development Opportunity: Despite the challenges, Gordon’s absence provides Denver’s young players with invaluable experience. They can use this period to improve, gain trust from coaches, and prepare for potential playoff minutes. If Watson, Nnaji, Tyson, and Julian Strawther can step up effectively, they may bolster Denver’s depth for the long term, adding resilience to the roster when Gordon returns.
While Gordon’s injury is a setback, it also represents an opportunity for growth. The coming weeks will demand both resilience and adaptability from the entire team. We will see if they’re ready for the moment.
