Is Aaron Gordon playing tonight? Exploring the Nuggets forward’s availability vs Timberwolves | 2024-25 NBA season

The Denver Nuggets have ruled Aaron Gordon probable for Friday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Gordon is on the injury list due to a right knee contusion. The high-flying power forward will miss his first game of the season if he is held out by the Nuggets.

Gordon suffered the injury in the Nuggets’ 144-139 overtime win against the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday. He did finish the matchup and converted two game-sealing free throws. The former Orlando Magic star had 24 points, five rebounds, two assists and one block in 33 minutes.

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The Denver Nuggets need Aaron Gordon against the Minnesota Timberwolves

After opening the 2024-25 NBA season with back-to-back home losses, the Denver Nuggets evened their record to 2-2 with two straight road wins. The victories came against the injury-plagued Toronto Raptors on Monday before upending the Nets the following night. To have a chance of beating the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Nuggets need him on the court.

Last season, the T-Wolves sent the Nuggets on vacation in the Western Conference semifinals with a healthy Gordon. If he isn’t cleared to play, Denver, which has had trouble when Nikola Jokic gets a breather, faces the tall task of beating Anthony Edwards and Co.

If Gordon isn’t cleared to play, his next opportunity to suit up for the Nuggets will be Saturday against the Utah Jazz.

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How has Aaron Gordon fared this season for the Nuggets?

In four games, Aaron Gordon is averaging 15.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.0 steals per game. He is shooting 48.8%, including 40.0% from deep, and remains Nikola Jokic’s favorite target for lobs and backdoor cuts. Gordon’s marksmanship from behind the arc has taken a leap. The Nuggets have benefited from having another capable shooter to space the floor for “The Joker” and Jamal Murray.

On defense, Gordon continues to be arguably Mike Malone’s most versatile defender. He routinely guards centers, forwards and wings. The 6-foot-8 forward can also switch on to guards if needed. The Nuggets need everything he is capable of doing to have a chance of walking away from Target Center with a win.