Denver's Aaron Gordon’s Game 7 Status in Doubt After Hamstring Injury: How Nuggets Adjust Could Decide Series

Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon’s availability for the decisive Game 7 against the Oklahoma City Thunder is in serious doubt after he suffered a left hamstring strain late in Game 6, a major development that could shape the outcome of Sunday’s Western Conference Semifinals showdown at 3:30 p.m. ET.Aaron Gordon sustained the injury with under two minutes remaining in Thursday’s Game 6 victory, visibly limping and grabbing at his left hamstring after chasing a loose ball. Despite the discomfort, he remained on the court for a brief spell before being substituted out. The incident immediately raised alarm bells for the Denver Nuggets, given Gordon’s pivotal role on both ends of the floor throughout the series.Interim head coach David Adelman did not mince words about the gravity of Aaron Gordon’s potential absence. “At this point, I have no idea. It would be high, obviously. Aaron is one of our guys-he’s the reason why we’ve won games, and won series, and have a banner hanging up in there,” Adelman told reporters after the game. He emphasized that the team would not take any risks with Gordon’s health, especially considering the unpredictable nature of hamstring injuries.The good news for Denver is that Aaron Gordon appeared to be in “good spirits” in the locker room following the game. According to The Athletic’s Tony Jones, Gordon did not have a wrap or ice on his leg, though he was seen grabbing at his hamstring while removing his ankle tape. Aaron Gordon himself told reporters he was beginning the recovery process and was “getting ready for Game 7,” indicating optimism but not providing a definitive answer about his status.Gordon’s presence is especially crucial for the Denver Nuggets, who rely on his defensive versatility and ability to contribute alongside Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray. He has averaged 14.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists this season, and his absence would be a significant blow as Denver faces a young, energetic Thunder squad on their home floor.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could chase $80 million Toronto Raptors big man to bolster squad around Luka Doncic and LeBron JamesWith two days of rest before Sunday’s tipoff, the Denver Nuggets medical staff will closely monitor Aaron Gordon’s progress. His status remains one of the most significant storylines heading into Game 7, a contest that will determine who advances to the Western Conference Finals to face the Minnesota Timberwolves.