Nuggets Force Game 7, But Aaron Gordon’s Late Hamstring Injury Raises Major Concerns

The Denver Nuggets delivered a gutsy 119-107 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 6, keeping their title hopes alive and forcing a decisive Game 7. While the victory showcased the heart of the defending champions, it also came with a potentially devastating blow: forward Aaron Gordon suffered a hamstring injury in the final minutes.

Jokić and Murray Lead the Way

Nikola Jokić once again flirted with a triple-double, finishing with 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 8 assists. Jamal Murray, battling illness, fought through adversity to post 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists in a warrior-like performance.

Rookie Julian Strawther emerged as an unexpected hero off the bench, adding 15 points and hitting crucial shots in the second half to help Denver swing momentum their way.

After trailing by 12 points in the second quarter, Denver closed the gap with a 12-0 run and entered halftime down just three. A dominant third quarter saw the Nuggets outscore the Thunder 14-2 at one stretch, taking control of the game. In the fourth, the Thunder mounted a final push, but Strawther’s timely three-pointer and Jokić’s steady free throws sealed the win.

Aaron Gordon Injury Worry

The night’s biggest concern came with just over a minute remaining, as Gordon grimaced in pain while chasing a loose ball, immediately grabbing the back of his left thigh. He hobbled but tried to stay in the game — an image eerily similar to Stephen Curry’s hamstring strain against the Timberwolves earlier this postseason, which sidelined the Warriors star for four games and ultimately contributed to Golden State’s first-round exit.

Injury expert Evan Jeffries reacted to the moment in real-time on social media, writing: “Aaron Gordon appears to tweak his left hamstring — definitely a major concern for Game 7.”

Postgame Reaction

Nuggets head coach David Adelman acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Gordon’s status postgame: “I don’t know what the situation is yet, but we’re obviously concerned. Thankfully, we have two days before Game 7.”

Gordon finished with 5 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists in 38 minutes, and his +17 plus-minus ranked second-highest on the team. His ability to suit up for Sunday’s elimination game remains in doubt.

What’s Next

The winner-take-all Game 7 will tip off at 3:30 a.m. ET on May 19. Gordon’s availability could prove pivotal as Denver looks to advance to the Western Conference Finals for a second straight year.