The Nuggets are navigating a rough patch, and there's no sugarcoating it. After doing an admirable job covering for Nikola Jokic and others through injuries, the team seems to be unraveling just as key players return to health.
They've dropped 5 of their last 7 games, slipping to fourth in the Western Conference, just three games clear of the play-in mix. Clutch-time struggles, a porous defense, missing key players, and signs of fatigue from their stars are all concerns. And with two months of regular season left, the road ahead is challenging.
Yet, despite these hurdles, you can't count this team out. If they can get healthy by playoff time, they can compete with any team, including the Thunder.
While their defense ranks 24th in the league overall, the numbers improve significantly when their best players are on the floor. As highlighted on the Game Theory podcast by Sam Vecenie and Bryce Simon, a healthy Nuggets squad remains a formidable force.
Aaron Gordon's injury throws a wrench in their plans. His defensive presence shifts the Nuggets from potential non-contenders to possible favorites. With Gordon on the court, they boast a 110.2 defensive rating, which would rank third in the league, trailing only the Thunder and Pistons.
Gordon's impact is undeniable. When he pairs with Christian Braun, the defensive rating hovers around 111; with Peyton Watson, it’s about 113; and with Bruce Brown, it drops to an impressive 108.1. Gordon is the defensive anchor, and his health is crucial for the Nuggets to realize their potential as an elite two-way team.
However, Gordon's hamstring issues are a genuine concern, marking his second extended absence this season. This recurring problem has troubled him in past seasons and might be something he needs to manage long-term.
There's hope, though. Tim McMahon reported on the Hoop Collective that Gordon is making progress-working out, practicing, and playing 1-on-1. The plan is to ramp up his activity after the current road trip, aiming for a return in a few weeks.
If the Nuggets can keep Gordon healthy, he remains one of the biggest x-factors this NBA season. With him on the court, the Nuggets have a legitimate shot at another championship run.