The Denver Nuggets and Oklahoma City Thunder are locked in a decisive Game 7 of the Western Conference Semifinals at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. Denver, with their season on the line, forced an extra game after defeating OKC on Thursday.
At halftime, the Thunder led 60-46, propelled by Jalen Williams' 17 points and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 12. Despite the deficit, the Nuggets showed first half fight, with Nikola Jokic contributing 17 points and Aaron Gordon adding eight points and eight rebounds before the break.
Gordon's participation was uncertain due to a Grade 2 left hamstring strain sustained in Game 6, an injury typically requiring several weeks of recovery.
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon (32)
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon (32)
Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Nevertheless, he was cleared to play and started Game 7, demonstrating determination to support his team in this critical matchup. NBA legend Magic Johnson expressed his support for Gordon's decision to play, reacting to the news with a post on X.
"I love to hear the NBA breaking news that Aaron Gordon is going to play against the Thunder in Game 7!" he exclaimed.
Gordon has been instrumental for the Nuggets throughout the series, averaging 16.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists over 38.2 minutes per game. He hit the game winning shot in Game 1, finishing the night with 22 points and 14 rebounds.
Gordon also came up big in Game 3, with 22 points and eight rebounds, and followed it up with another double-double in Game 4. While a Game 7 loss ends Denver's season, it also gives Gordon a full summer to rest and recover.