Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon has declared himself fully healthy and ready for the new NBA season after a year marred by injuries. This announcement comes as the Nuggets ride a five-game winning streak, their most recent victory a 128-118 win over the San Antonio Spurs on April 13, 2026. Gordon's availability is a significant development for a team aiming to build on its recent form.
Aaron Gordon played only 36 regular-season games last year due to multiple right hamstring injuries. His postseason was also cut short. He appeared in just three first-round playoff games against the Minnesota Timberwolves because of calf tightness. The forward even played through a left hamstring injury in Game 7 of the 2025 Western Conference semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Speaking at his youth basketball camp, Gordon provided a clear update on his recovery. "I did a lot of soul-searching and training, so I got my mind right and my body right," Gordon said. "I'm ready to go." This statement confirms he has moved past the calf issue that sidelined him in the playoffs and the various hamstring problems.
Gordon's return to full strength is vital for Denver's frontcourt depth and defensive versatility. His absence last season was felt acutely, especially after the offseason departure of Peyton Watson. Watson, who often filled in for Gordon, was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a sign-and-trade deal after the Nuggets could not meet his contract demands.
Gordon acknowledged Watson's exit, calling him a close friend. "That's my dawg, but it's deeper than basketball with Peyton and I," Gordon explained. "Our family members go to the same church. Peyton's just like my brother. I'm happy for him." Watson thanked Gordon as his "big brother" in a farewell Instagram post to Nuggets fans. With Watson gone, a healthy Gordon is even more essential to the team's rotation and championship aspirations.
The Nuggets are entering this period of roster adjustment with serious momentum. Their current form shows five consecutive wins, with no draws or losses in that stretch. The run includes high-scoring victories like a 136-119 win over the Memphis Grizzlies on April 9 and a 127-107 triumph against the Oklahoma City Thunder on April 11.
This strong finish to the season provides a positive backdrop for Gordon's return. The consistent winning demonstrates the team's core strength, which Gordon's health will only amplify.
While re-signing Peyton Watson was a priority, financial constraints prevented a deal. Instead, the Nuggets focused on other areas. They secured guard Tyus Jones and forward Spencer Jones to new contracts. In free agency, they added significant experience and depth by signing DeMar DeRozan, Alpha Diallo, and Marvin Bagley III.
These additions are designed to bolster the squad around stars like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. The departures included not only Watson but also Tim Hardaway Jr., who joined the Miami Heat, and center Jonas Valanciunas, who returned to Lithuania after being waived. The roster now blends continuity with new faces, all counting on a fit Aaron Gordon to anchor the defense and provide athleticism on both ends of the floor. His ability to stay on the court will be one of the defining factors for Denver's success.
