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Aaron Gordon’s Bench Role Fuels Nuggets’ Winning Streak

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Aaron Gordon Denver Nuggets Bench Role 2025

DENVER, Colo. — Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon has embraced a reserve role as he works his way back from a second calf strain this season, helping the team extend its winning streak to five games. Gordon, who suffered the injury on Christmas Day, has played in five games since his return, all off the bench, and has been instrumental in the Nuggets’ recent success.

“Whatever I can do in that sense, I’m here to do, and I’m willing to do,” Gordon said after Tuesday’s 19-point performance in a win over the Philadelphia 76ers at Ball Arena. The 29-year-old forward has been on a minutes restriction, averaging 22 minutes per game since his return, and has made significant contributions, including shooting 6 of 7 from the field and 3 of 3 from beyond the arc in his latest outing.

Nuggets coach Michael Malone praised Gordon’s versatility and team-first mentality. “He can do so many things for you. When he’s shooting the 3-point shot like he has been, now it’s like ‘Well, how are you going to guard this guy?’” Malone said. “Aaron has been outstanding for us, and it’s good to see him kind of building back, getting confidence, getting a rhythm with that unit.”

Gordon’s return has coincided with a strong stretch for the Nuggets, who are 11-4 since Dec. 25. The team has won all five games with Gordon coming off the bench, raising questions about whether the current lineup of Russell Westbrook, Jamal Murray, Christian Braun, Michael Porter Jr., and Nikola Jokic should remain intact. Malone has not committed to a decision but emphasized Gordon’s willingness to adapt. “The first thing he said to me was ‘Coach, we’re playing really well. If you want to bring me off the bench, even when I’m healthy, bring me off the bench,’” Malone shared.

Gordon’s selflessness is not new. He recalled coming off the bench in the gold-medal game of the 2013 FIBA Under-19 World Championship, where he helped the United States defeat Serbia and a young Nikola Jokic. “I’m here to do whatever the team needs of me,” Gordon said. Jokic, the Nuggets’ three-time MVP, acknowledged Gordon’s sacrifices. “Since he came here, he’s probably the guy who is sacrificing himself the most,” Jokic said. “He changed his game. That’s who he is. He just wants to win.”

Gordon’s journey to Denver has been marked by transformation. Once a top offensive option with the Orlando Magic, he has evolved into a key defensive presence and role player for the Nuggets, helping the franchise secure its first NBA championship last season. However, injuries have limited him to just 22 appearances this season, making his patience and gradual return all the more critical.

“It’s very challenging. Basketball is my sanctuary. I use it as an outlet, a little escape or to cope with some of the stresses in regular-day life,” Gordon admitted. “To not have that coping mechanism has been, I don’t know, just a bit frustrating. I’m just happy to be back.”

As the Nuggets continue their push for another championship, Gordon’s adaptability and team-first approach could prove pivotal. Whether he remains in a bench role or returns to the starting lineup, his impact on the court and in the locker room remains undeniable.