Before the Denver Nuggets paid a visit to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Game 3 of the first-round series in the 2026 NBA Playoffs, the team worried about the availability of Aaron Gordon.
At first, the veteran forward was in good shape. Although he was listed on the injury report with a calf-related issue, the Nuggets had Gordon listed as probable to play. Gordon was downgraded to questionable later.
Ultimately, the Nuggets ruled him out.
Denver Nuggets Announce Statement On Aaron Gordon
GettyDENVER, COLORADO – SEPTEMBER 29: Head coach David Adelman of the Denver Nuggets fields questions during Media Day at Ball Arena on September 29, 2025 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
Before the Nuggets and the Timberwolves tipped off for Game 3, Nuggets head coach David Adelman addressed questions regarding Gordon’s status.
The head coach revealed that Gordon’s calf concerns popped up after the Game 2 loss at home.
âWe were waiting to see how he was going to react to it,” Adelman told reporters. In between games, Gordon was a part of a Nuggets practice session, but the team continued to monitor Gordon as best as they could, while going through light sessions.
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – NOVEMBER 21: Aaron Gordon #32 of the Denver Nuggets exits the game due to injury in the first quarter of the game against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on November 21, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images)
âToday, there wasnât much improvementâso heâs outâI canât tell the future and what tomorrowâs going to bring,” Adelman said. “I have no idea, it just seems like it has happened so many times. I think the guys know this is Game 3 of the playoffs, you just get ready to play.”
During the 2025-2026 regular season, Gordon appeared in just 36 games. He battled setbacks throughout the year. The veteran averaged 16.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game
The Nuggets Are In A Deeper Hole
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 14: Aaron Gordon #32 of the Denver Nuggets looks on during the second half of a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on March 14, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
There’s no telling how much of a difference Gordon could’ve made in Game 3.
But the Nuggets didn’t have any answers for what the Timberwolves brought to the table. Minnesota churned out a 113-96 victory.
Now, the Timberwolves are 2-1 heading into Game 4. The Nuggets are facing plenty of uncertainty, with Gordon’s status remaining a question mark.
The Nuggets and the Timberwolves will be back on the court on Saturday, tipping off at 8:30 PM ET for Game 4.
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