Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon is expected to make his return to action on Sunday in Dallas, reports NBA insider Chris Haynes (Twitter video link).
Gordon has been sidelined since Christmas Day, having missed Denver’ past nine games due to a right calf strain. The injury was an aggravation of a strain he suffered in the same calf earlier in the season — that ailment cost him 10 games in November.
As we noted earlier today, Gordon was upgraded to doubtful for Friday’s game vs. Brooklyn before being ruled out, then was listed as questionable for Sunday’s contest against the Mavericks.
A key part of Denver’s starting lineup, Gordon has been his usual effective self when he has been healthy this season, averaging 13.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 28.8 minutes per game across 17 outings (16 starts). He has also made 52.3% of his shots from the field, including 44.0% of his three-pointers.
The Nuggets have a +8.0 net rating during Gordon’s 489 minutes so far this season; that marks dips to +2.4 when he’s not on the floor.
Russell Westbrook has replaced Gordon in the starting lineup over the past nine games. It’s unclear if Gordon will immediately reclaim his spot — following his 10-game absence in November, he came off the bench in his return before starting his second game back.
Good to have him back. Wish Luka and kyrie were playing today!