Hamstring Won't Hold Him Back: Aaron Gordon Starts Game 7 For Denver

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Post on May 19, 2025

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Hamstring Won't Hold Him Back: Aaron Gordon Starts Game 7 for Denver, Defying Expectations

Denver, CO – In a move that surprised many, Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon started Game 7 of the Western Conference Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers, despite battling a nagging hamstring injury. The announcement sent shockwaves through the basketball world, highlighting Gordon's unwavering commitment and the Nuggets' desperate need for his multifaceted skillset. The question on everyone's mind: could a hampered Gordon truly make a difference in a winner-takes-all showdown?

The injury, sustained earlier in the series, cast doubt on Gordon's availability for the pivotal game. Reports suggested he was questionable at best, potentially relegating him to a limited role from the bench. However, head coach Michael Malone clearly saw things differently, opting to deploy Gordon from the jump. This bold decision underscores the value Malone places on Gordon's defensive prowess, rebounding ability, and surprisingly consistent offensive contributions throughout the playoffs.

<h3>Gordon's Importance to the Nuggets' Game Plan</h3>

Gordon's presence on the court extends beyond simple statistics. He's a crucial component of Denver's defensive strategy, often tasked with guarding opposing teams' most versatile forwards. His length and athleticism, even slightly diminished by injury, provide a significant defensive presence against the likes of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Furthermore, Gordon's rebounding is invaluable. His ability to secure crucial boards, both offensively and defensively, gives the Nuggets a significant advantage in transition and second-chance scoring opportunities. In a high-stakes game like Game 7, these seemingly small advantages can often prove decisive.

Beyond defense and rebounding, Gordon provides consistent energy and hustle. His willingness to dive for loose balls and play with intensity is infectious, boosting the morale and effort level of his teammates. This intangible aspect of his game is arguably as important as his statistical contributions.

<h3>The Risk and Reward of Starting an Injured Player</h3>

Starting an injured player in a Game 7 carries inherent risks. Exacerbating the injury could sideline him for the remainder of the playoffs, a catastrophic scenario for the Nuggets. However, Malone clearly weighed the potential rewards against the risks. Gordon's presence, even if at less than 100%, offers a substantial boost to the team's overall capabilities.

The decision reflects a belief in Gordon's resilience and his ability to manage his injury effectively. It also highlights the deep trust between Malone and his player, a testament to the team's strong chemistry and cohesive environment.

<h3>The Game 7 Performance and Its Impact</h3>

While the specifics of Gordon's performance in Game 7 remain to be seen, his mere presence on the starting lineup sends a powerful message: the Denver Nuggets are prepared to fight tooth and nail for a place in the NBA Finals. This bold move underscores the high stakes of the game and the Nuggets' unwavering determination to claim victory. The impact of his start, regardless of the final score, will undoubtedly be analyzed and debated for years to come. His commitment, regardless of outcome, cements his status as a key player in the Denver Nuggets' playoff run.

Keywords: Aaron Gordon, Denver Nuggets, Game 7, Western Conference Finals, Los Angeles Lakers, Hamstring Injury, NBA Playoffs, Michael Malone, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Playoffs, Basketball, NBA, Injury Update, Starting Lineup