Aaron Gordon Listed Probable as Nuggets Face Bucks in Tense Matchup

DENVER, Colo. — Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon is listed as probable for Thursday’s matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks due to right calf injury management. His presence is crucial for the Nuggets, especially as they prepare to face one of the league’s premier players, Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Gordon’s probable status may be precautionary, as he has previously missed game time this season due to a calf strain. After returning from a prior injury on Jan. 12, Gordon has only missed three games. This steady return places him in a favorable position to contribute against the Bucks.

“I feel ready to go,” Gordon said following Wednesday’s practice. “I’ve been working hard to stay in shape, and I want to be out there with my team.”

Oddsmakers have set the Nuggets as four-point favorites for this clash, highlighting their potential despite a mixed record at 9-12 against the spread as road favorites. The Nuggets recently won against the Indiana Pacers, where star center Nikola Jokic delivered a remarkable performance, recording a career-high 19 assists.

In the 2024-25 season, Gordon is averaging 13.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game while shooting 51.9 percent from the field and 43.0 percent from three-point range. His ability to defend and score puts him in a prime position to take on Antetokounmpo, who is also listed as probable due to calf soreness.

The game is set to tip off at 8 p.m. ET at the Fiserv Forum, with broadcast coverage on TNT, ALT, truTV, and MAX. Both teams enter this game with playoff implications on the line, making it not just an entertaining matchup, but also a critical one for their standings.

Currently, the Nuggets are enjoying a resurgence with a nine-game winning streak, propelling them to the third seed in the Western Conference. However, they experienced a setback with a 23-point loss to the Los Angeles Lakers before rebounding against the Pacers.

“We need to build off the win against Indiana and not look back,” Jokic said. “Every game counts this time of year.”

As for the Bucks, they are 32-25 and are seeking to regain momentum after losing to the Houston Rockets following a three-game winning streak. The trade additions of Kyle Kuzma, Kevin Porter Jr., and Jericho Sims have bolstered their lineup. Kuzma’s presence has especially strengthened their perimeter defense.

Head coach Mike Budenholzer remains optimistic about their chances despite injuries. “Everyone needs to step up. We know what’s at stake,” Budenholzer stated. “We believe we can play strong regardless of who is available.”

The matchup is significant for both franchises—a win could boost confidence as they gear up for the final stretch of the season. Denver has an opportunity to solidify their standing, while Milwaukee aims to prove they can contend with the top teams from the West.

In injury news, Vlatko Cancar, DaRon Holmes, and Peyton Watson are out for the Nuggets. Meanwhile, Pat Connaughton is ruled out for the Bucks. With both teams needing to navigate these injury challenges, the showdown promises to deliver high-stakes basketball.