Aaron Gordon is focused on improving his performance after returning to the court. His challenges include making an impact and staying on the court.
Following his first game in over a month, Gordon acknowledged the need for improvement. He stated, “Obviously, I’ve gotta play better on the offensive side… And defense. I’ve just gotta play better for us to have a chance to win. I think as I get my legs back under me, I’ll do that. So I’ve gotta be better for us.”
Gordon Reflects on Performance and Injury
Gordon was candid about his performance after a loss to the Knicks. The game marked his return after missing 17 consecutive games due to a reaggravated hamstring strain. Despite the anticipation, the Nuggets suffered a significant home defeat, losing 142-103.
Addressing concerns about re-injury, Gordon said, “I’ve gotta stay on top of it. But I play without worry. When you’re worried about an injury out there, that’s usually when it happens. So I feel great. My body feels good. It’s just the timing and the pace of the game that needs to come back to me now, but I feel good.”
Gordon had previously returned for 10 games in January before the injury resurfaced during a game in Milwaukee. He played 21 minutes in his return, recording three points, three rebounds, and three assists. His playing time will be limited for the time being.
Gratitude Despite the Setback
Despite the loss, Gordon expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play. “It’s fun. I’m grateful to be able to play this game and be out there and express myself through the game that I love to play, and to be out there with the fellas. So win, lose or draw, I have gratitude. Obviously, it’s better to come out with a win, and that’s what I’m looking for day in and day out. But I’m grateful to just play the game.”
Looking ahead, Gordon’s next game could demand increased speed and physicality. The Nuggets are scheduled to play Oklahoma City.
Conditioning and Rhythm
Gordon believes his conditioning needs to improve. “Anybody in the league can make shots when there’s no cardio involved, when no one’s tired,” he said. “But as soon as you start running up and down, it gets a little bit harder to make shots and be in the right place at the right time. But I’m not here to make excuses. I played bad (against the Knicks). And I know that affected us losing the game.”
- The Nuggets are 17-7 when Gordon plays this season.
- They are 12-4 when he plays 25 or more minutes.
- Three of those losses were by one-score margins.
- All four losses were by single digits.
Coach David Adelman noted that Gordon is still finding his rhythm. “Aaron was on an emotional high, but he’s still trying to find a rhythm in a real game,” Adelman said.
Gordon is still shooting 39% from the 3-point line this season.