A middling start had already been bothering the Denver Nuggets. The Nikola Jokic-led side has been desperate in their pursuit to add another title to his reign. However, early-season worries have been looming. At first, Jamal Murray took a hit to the head against the Timberwolves, sending him to the NBA’s concussion protocol. And now, they could lose another vital contributor, Aaron Gordon.

Prior to their game against the Raptors, Gordon did appear on the injury list, as probable, for a right calf inflammation and a right knee contusion injury, as per ESPN. Still, the 29-year-old managed to play. His step didn’t lack either. AG finished a neat layup before he held his right calf in pain. The moment he felt the searing pain, the former Magic forward walked back to the locker room.

The exact details and repercussions of this injury remain unclear. However, according to Underdog, Aaron Gordon is “questionable” in resuming the game against the Toronto Raptors. The athletic specimen only played four minutes, scoring 3 points before exiting the game. Already lacking Murray, a crafty scorer, Gordon’s departure might pile problems for the Nuggets facing a young yet brave Raptors team.

The 2023 NBA champion had one of his most memorable starts to the season. Before the Raptors game, Gordon averaged 17.5 points, almost as good as his carer-high with the Magic in 2018. Additionally, his shot has never felt better! Shooting 55% from three, he was amidst a daunting run, taking on more responsibilities than before as part of the Nuggets.

Without him, it will be tough for the Joker and the Nuggets to beat the Raptors. However, there is still some hope with the way they are playing thus far.

Can the Nuggets tackle the Raptors without Aaron Gordon?

With their reputation as competitors, a 3-3 start is unusual for the Nuggets who have had a well-rounded roster over the past few seasons. A part of their struggles has been streaky offensive performances for Jamal Murray, the celebrated second fiddle. With such distress, Aaron Gordon emerged as a reliable second-option scorer behind Nikola Jokic, and he scored with finesse and comfort.

With him and Murray both out, it leaves the Joker will fewer weapons to work with. It has taken away the three-time MVP’s lethal pick-and-roll combination with the Canadian guard. Furthermore, he can’t access his clever lob passes with no Gordon-like rim threat waiting at the backside.

Still, some good things are happening for the Nuggets. They trail the persistent Raptors at halftime. Down by just 5, Nikola Jokic has already achieved 7 assists, ensuring his teammates stay involved. Offensively, Russell Westbrook has been the battery, starting the game 3-3 and currently scoring a team-high 13 points with just a single turnover.

The Serb will dedicate much of his attention to curbing Jakob Poeltl, who is a menace near the rim at the moment with 13 points. Sophomore Gradey Dick has also been impressive in RJ Barrett’s unfruitful start. The scope to turn around depends on how well the Nuggets can manage through the deficit and generate great looks for those on the floor.

With two significant components gone, the Raptors have defensive targets set in mind. It could open up the field of play for Denver, allowing them to land a few punches of their own. Do you think the Nuggets can stitch a comeback? Let us know your views in the comments below.