The Nuggets will have Aaron Gordon back in the lineup for Saturday’s Game 4 as they try to even their series with Minnesota, the team announced (via Twitter).
Gordon had been listed as questionable after sitting out Game 3 with left calf tightness. He was able to participate in a walkthrough at Friday’s practice, and the decision was eventually made to permit him to play.
“We’ll try to use him the way we would’ve used him anyway,” coach David Adelman said (Twitter link from Bennett Durando of The Denver Post). “I think that’s how you have to attack this: If he’s available, he’s available. But with the idea that the communication throughout the game is important.”
Gordon was a major contributor as Denver won the series opener, finishing with 17 points, eight rebounds and three assists in 29 minutes while shooting 5-of-10 from the field. He had eight points, seven rebounds and four assists in 37 minutes in the Game 2 loss.
Gordon provides another big body to help match up with Minnesota’s front line, and his versatility on offense and defense has been an important part of the Nuggets’ success. His presence in Game 4 is especially important as backup forward Peyton Watson remains sidelined with a strained right hamstring.
Gordon battled injuries throughout the season and was only available for 36 games. He averaged 16.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.7 assists in 27.9 minutes per night while shooting 49.7% from the field and 38.9% from three-point range.
Torn Achilles incoming
Gordon shouldn’t be on the floor tonight but that’s a horrible thing to wish upon anyone. Especially after seeing Donte leave the court with what appears to be one.