Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon made his return to the court in Sunday’s 112-101 victory over the Dallas Mavericks after missing nine games due to a right calf strain. Despite being on a minutes restriction, Gordon made a significant impact, contributing 13 points on an efficient 6-of-7 shooting performance in just 18 minutes of play. His presence was felt on both ends of the court, as the Nuggets outscored the Mavericks by 23 points during his time on the floor.
Gordon’s absence stemmed from discomfort he experienced in his right calf during a Christmas Day loss to the Phoenix Suns. This injury was a recurrence of a similar issue earlier in the season, which had already sidelined him for 10 games. Returning after a two-week recovery period, Gordon’s performance provided a much-needed boost to the Nuggets as they continue to solidify their position in the Western Conference standings.
The game also marked the return of Jamal Murray to the starting lineup following a brief injury scare. Murray, who had left Friday’s win against the Brooklyn Nets at halftime due to left knee soreness, was listed as questionable for Sunday’s matchup. However, he played 32 minutes and recorded 17 points, showcasing his resilience and ability to contribute despite lingering concerns about his health.
The combined returns of Gordon and Murray were instrumental in the Nuggets’ success against Dallas, demonstrating the importance of their presence on the court. Gordon’s efficient scoring and defensive presence, along with Murray’s scoring output and leadership, highlight the duo’s critical roles in Denver’s pursuit of a deep playoff run.