The Nuggets’ Championship Equation: Why Aaron Gordon’s Health is Everything
The Denver Nuggets’ aspirations for a repeat championship are increasingly tied to the health of forward Aaron Gordon. Even as Nikola Jokić remains the engine of the team, and Jamal Murray provides crucial scoring, the Nuggets haven’t consistently resembled title contenders without Gordon on the floor. His potential return this week, targeting Friday’s game against the Latest York Knicks, is a pivotal moment for the team.
The Impact of Gordon’s Absence
Gordon has missed 39 of Denver’s 62 games this season due to a right hamstring injury. This extended absence has exposed vulnerabilities, particularly on the defensive finish. The Nuggets’ defensive rating with Gordon on the court (108.9 points allowed per 100 possessions) is significantly better than when he’s off the floor (117.1 allowed). This 8.2-point difference underscores his importance as a versatile defender capable of guarding multiple positions, a trait the Nuggets desperately require.
The team’s overall effectiveness also reflects this disparity, boasting a 14.0 net rating with Gordon and just 1.9 without him. Denver has lost 11 of their last 20 games, coinciding with Gordon’s and Peyton Watson’s hamstring injuries, highlighting the impact of these key absences.
A Strategic Acquisition Revisited
The Nuggets recognized Gordon’s value back in 2021, acquiring him from the Orlando Magic in a trade that sent Gary Harris, R.J. Hampton, and a protected 2025 first-round pick to Orlando. Then-Nuggets president of basketball operations Tim Connelly specifically sought Gordon to fill a void left by Jerami Grant’s departure, recognizing his ability to defend elite wing scorers like Luka Dončić, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant.
At the time, Denver’s defensive rating was 13th in the league, prompting the need for a defensive upgrade. Gordon’s arrival immediately addressed this weakness, contributing to the Nuggets’ championship run in 2023, where they were fifth in offensive rating and 15th in defensive rating.
Defense: The Key to Championship Contention
History suggests that strong defense is a hallmark of championship teams. Since the 1996-97 season, only one champion (the 2000-01 Los Angeles Lakers) finished outside the top 11 in defensive rating. Eighteen of the other 26 champions had top-five defensive ratings, and eight more were between sixth, and eleventh. The Nuggets, currently 21st in the league in defensive rating, understand this imperative.
Gordon’s previous hamstring injury, suffered in last year’s playoffs against the Oklahoma City Thunder, also played a role in their second-round exit. He was visibly hampered in Game 7, finishing with a limited stat line and a negative plus-minus.
Gordon’s Offensive Contributions
Gordon’s value extends beyond defense. He was playing some of his best offensive basketball before his injuries, even recording a 50-point game earlier this season against the Golden State Warriors. He was on pace to set a new career high in scoring and shooting 3-pointers at a career-best clip of 40 percent.
FAQ
Q: What is Aaron Gordon’s injury?
A: Aaron Gordon has been dealing with a right hamstring injury, initially sustained in November and re-aggravated in January.
Q: When is Aaron Gordon expected to return?
A: He is targeting a return in Friday’s home game against the New York Knicks.
Q: Why is Aaron Gordon so important to the Nuggets?
A: He is a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions and significantly improves the Nuggets’ defensive rating when he is on the court.
Q: What was the trade that brought Aaron Gordon to Denver?
A: The Nuggets acquired Gordon from the Orlando Magic in 2021, sending Gary Harris, R.J. Hampton, and a protected 2025 first-round pick to the Magic.
If Gordon can return to form and remain healthy, the Nuggets have a legitimate chance to contend for another title. However, his absence serves as a stark reminder that even the most talented teams need a complete roster to achieve championship success.
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