Jamal Murray is listed on the injury report alongside Aaron Gordon, with both players designated as probable. Murray is dealing with a left ankle injury, while Gordon is managing a right hamstring injury ahead of the matchup.

The Nuggets edged the San Antonio Spurs 136-131 after erasing a 20-point deficit. That comeback allowed the Nuggets to arrive with strong momentum and confidence for tonight’s crucial matchup against the Lakers, who are expected to have all their stars available.

Will Jamal Murray play?

Everything indicates that Jamal Murray will play in tonight’s game despite being listed as probable. Murray has frequently appeared on the injury report recently, yet he continues to perform at a high level. The All-Star guard scored 39 points as six Nuggets reached double figures, including Nikola Jokic with 31 points.

Jokic also recorded another triple-double with 20 rebounds and 12 assists, along with three steals and two blocks. Murray’s production has surged in recent games, as he is averaging 28.6 points on 49.6 percent shooting, including 46.7 percent from three-point range across the last seven NBA games.

Will Aaron Gordon play?

Gordon appears to be in a similar situation to Murray, as all indications suggest he will be available for the game. Gordon has appeared in only three games this month, with the Nuggets carefully easing their starting forward back into the rotation.

Gordon’s knee issues have limited him to just 26 games this season, although his right hamstring continues to improve as the Nuggets prepare for what they hope will be a deep playoff run. Gordon missed Game 7 of the Nuggets’ Western Conference semifinal series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. After missing Thursday’s game against the Spurs, he is expected to be cleared for Saturday’s matchup.

With Thursday’s comeback victory against the Spurs, the Nuggets improved to 41-26, the fifth-best record in the Western Conference standings, just half a game behind the Lakers. A win against Los Angeles would move the Nuggets into fourth place in the standings.

According to the latest official NBA injury report, the Nuggets have listed both Jamal Murray (left calf tightness) and Aaron Gordon (left hamstring injury management) as probable for tonight’s matchup in Los Angeles.

While both players were also listed as probable on the injury report for the previous game against the Kings, both players ultimately suited up for the Nuggets’ victory. Murray, Gordon, and Nikola Jokic all played over 30 minutes in that contest, with the Canadian point guard logging a team-high 37 minutes.

To date, Murray and Gordon have missed only one game this season and are proving to be key pieces for the team. The Nuggets hold an impressive 7-2 record with both players in the lineup, as they are enjoying hot starts to the season.

Murray is averaging 22.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, while shooting 48.1 percent from the field and 37.1 percent from 3-point range. On the other side, Gordon averages 19.8 points, 5.6 boards and 1.7 assists per game, while shooting 53.7 percent from the field and 46.7 percent from three-point range.

The Nuggets face a battered Clippers

The Nuggets have quickly transformed into serious candidates to compete for the NBA championship. Besides having Murray and Gordon in top form, Nikola Jokic is playing at an untouchable level.

The Serbian star is dominating early in the season, putting up numbers that could easily lead him to his fourth MVP award, averaging 26.2 points, 13.2 rebounds, and 11.4 assists through the team’s ten games so far.

In contrast are the Clippers, who were viewed as serious title contenders before the season began. However, things have not started as expected. Due to poor results and injuries, they are currently struggling at 3-7 and desperately need a win to stop falling in the standings.

For tonight’s contest, the Clippers will be without star Kawhi Leonard (right ankle sprain) and also Bradley Beal, who only played six games and will miss the rest of the lengthy season due to a fractured hip, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.

On Saturday afternoon, the Denver Nuggets officially ruled out both Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon ahead of their matchup. Murray, who had been listed as questionable with a calf injury, will not play, removing any chance of a late return.

As for Aaron Gordon, he has also been ruled out due to injury management. The forward had been considered a game-time decision but will now sit out, as the Nuggets prioritize his long-term health after a strong start to the season.

If the Nuggets end up missing both Murray and Gordon, it would be a major blow for Denver. Nikola Jokic remains one of the best players in the world, but even he can’t do it all against a team like the Pacers — last season’s NBA finalists — despite Indiana’s own injury concerns, including the absence of Tyrese Haliburton.

How the Nuggets and Pacers arrive

The 1-7 Indiana Pacers open their four-game road trip against the 6-2 Denver Nuggets at 9 p.m. ET. Indiana is coming off a 112-103 loss to the Brooklyn Nets, who entered that game winless, while Denver rides a three-game winning streak — including a dominant 129-104 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Friday.

Last season, the Pacers and Nuggets split their two-game series 1-1. However, before Indiana’s 125-120 win on April 6, the Pacers had lost nine straight against Denver. On Saturday, they’ll look to break through once again against the current No. 4 seed in the NBA Western Conference.

Positive news for the Pacers

The biggest bright spot on Indiana’s latest injury report is the update on guard Andrew Nembhard. The Canadian suffered a shoulder injury during the Pacers’ opening-night loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder and has yet to return. However, the team officially upgraded him to questionable for Saturday’s game. According to Scott Agness of Fieldhouse Files, Nembhard “is on track to play” against Denver.

If Nembhard is cleared, it would be a major boost for the Pacers as they continue to deal with backcourt injuries. If not, they will likely turn to recently acquired Monte Morris, who is reportedly available to face his former team.

Gordon became the sixth player in NBA history to score 50 or more points in a season-opening game. The Nuggets forward was nearly flawless in his performance against the Golden State Warriors, finishing with 50 points—his career high—on 17 of 21 shooting, including 10 of 11 from three-point range.

His efficiency made it the most accurate 50-point game in league history by true shooting percentage. Gordon also made eight consecutive triples, leaving the Warriors fans in disbelief.

Coming off a challenging end to last season, when a hamstring injury limited him in the Western Conference semifinals, Gordon returned seemingly stronger than ever. The question now is whether he can sustain this level of play.

The prestigious list Gordon joined

Aaron Gordon finished with 50 points, eight rebounds, and two assists. His previous career best came in 2017 with 41 points for Orlando against the Nets, and his previous best with the Nuggets was a 38-point performance against the Warriors in March. By reaching 50, he became the first player ever to do so for the Denver Nuggets.

Here’s the full list of players with 50+ points in an NBA season opener:

• Michael Jordan x2
• Wilt Chamberlain
• Elgin Baylor
• Anthony Davis
• Kyrie Irving
• Aaron Gordon

Gordon’s remarkable game and a notable refusal

In the first half, Gordon shot 7 of 8 from the field, totaling 25 points. He added another 20 in the second half on 8 of 11 shooting and contributed five of the Nuggets’ 11 points in overtime. Despite the stellar effort, the Nuggets fell short. After the game, Gordon declined the game ball that the team offered him, highlighting the frustration of his historic NBA night ending in a loss.

Despite expectations that he would miss the pivotal contest due to a lingering hamstring injury, Gordon and the team cleared him to play just before tipoff. But according to three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, Gordon may have been better off sitting out. The Serbian star later admitted he advised his teammate not to take the risk.

“I told him not to play,” Jokic revealed during his postgame press conference following the 117–100 loss. “You can injure yourself even worse. You could see he was struggling—hard to move, this and that. But he went out there to fight with us. We can just appreciate that.”

Gordon wasn’t at full strength, and his impact was limited. Still, he managed to contribute eight points on 2-of-4 shooting and pulled down an impressive 11 rebounds in 25 minutes. While clearly not at peak form, his effort stood out, and his presence alone offered Denver a lift—though perhaps not enough to change the outcome.

When compared to his NBA regular-season output, Gordon’s Game 7 stats marked a step down. He finished the season averaging 14.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists across 51 games. In the playoffs, he elevated his game, averaging 16.2 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.7 assists through 14 appearances.

Gordon had been managing a Grade 2 hamstring strain—a soft-tissue injury that typically requires multiple weeks of recovery. Nonetheless, he pushed through the discomfort and suited up for Denver’s most important game of the year. Afterward, he spoke candidly about the decision with team insider Brendan Vogt.

“I was pretty sure I was going to play,” Gordon said. “I was doing everything I could possibly do to be out there fighting for my teammates.” When asked if he felt pain during the game, he admitted, “Not much. Just wish I played better.”

On the other end, Jokic once again delivered a strong individual performance, finishing with 20 points on 5-of-9 shooting, along with nine rebounds and seven assists. He did commit five turnovers, but the load he carried all season long was undeniable. Jokic wrapped up his campaign with averages of 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds and 10.2 assists per game—numbers worthy of MVP consideration.

Prior to tip-off, Gordon had been nursing a Grade 2 hamstring strain—an injury that typically requires multiple weeks of recovery. Despite the setback, the Nuggets forward fought through the pain and took the floor for Game 7. After the game, he reflected on the decision, as reported by team insider Brendan Vogt.

“I was pretty sure I was going to play… I was doing everything I could possibly do to be out there fighting for my teammates,” Gordon said. When asked if he felt discomfort during the game, he added, “Not much. Just wish I played better.”

Gordon finished with eight points and 11 rebounds, but fell short of the offensive impact he had delivered earlier in the postseason. Known for his timely scoring and clutch plays throughout Denver’s playoff run, his performance in Game 7 lacked the same spark—likely due to the lingering effects of the injury.

Even so, his presence on the court and effort on the glass were evident. He remained active on the boards and didn’t visibly show signs of serious limitations, despite playing with an injury that would sideline most players. His resilience was one of the few bright spots for the Nuggets on an otherwise difficult night.

“Aaron gave us more than I think we all could ask for,” said Jamal Murray during his postgame press conference, via @ohnohedidnt24 on X (formerly Twitter). “I played through a Grade 1 calf strain last year, and he played through a Grade 2 hamstring. A hamstring is no joke.”

The entire team recognized Gordon’s sacrifice. Acting head coach David Adelman, who closely monitored Gordon’s status ahead of Game 7, praised the 29-year-old forward for his determination and toughness.

“Aaron Gordon is incredible. What he played with today—there aren’t many people who would even attempt to run up and down the court like that,” Adelman said. “That was one of the most incredible things I’ve ever seen. He was extremely close to not playing.”

Though the result didn’t go in Denver’s favor, Gordon’s effort served as a testament to his leadership and commitment. For a team that fell short of defending its championship, his grit left a lasting impression as the Nuggets now enter a pivotal NBA offseason.

The Thunder faithful are expected to bring the energy as OKC looks to validate its regular-season success. Led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the team has proven itself a legitimate contender, and a win would mark a significant milestone in their postseason run.

Meanwhile, the Nuggets are under pressure to defend their 2023 NBA title. Every player’s presence matters in a game of this magnitude, and fans are anxiously awaiting updates on Gordon’s status, which could significantly impact Denver’s chances.

Is Aaron Gordon playing today for the Nuggets vs. Thunder?

Surprisingly, Aaron Gordon will be in the starters for today’s matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the forward suffered a Grade 2 left hamstring strain and was expected to miss at least one month, but the coaching staff just put him on the list to play against the Thunder.

This will be Gordon’s 14 game of the 2025 NBA Playoffs, as he had played in every contest prior to this injury. His presence comes at a critical time for Denver, which is counting on his defense and versatility in one of the most important games of the season.

Who could replace Aaron Gordon if he can’t keep playing today?

With Gordon expected to play despite his injury, Denver could be turning to its depth to fill the void in case he can’t perform greatly. One potential option is Russell Westbrook, who has come off the bench but could now step into a larger role. The veteran guard brings playoff experience and energy that could prove valuable in this elimination game.

Other candidates include Julian Strawther and Peyton Watson, both of whom have shown promise in limited postseason minutes. Head coach David Adelman will need to make a strategic decision to put the Nuggets in the best position to advance.

Chet Holmgren addressed Gordon’s remarks ahead of Game 3, defending the physicality of the series and pushing back on the notion that Oklahoma City has been getting away with uncalled contact.

“I feel like when we’ve fouled, we’ve been called for fouls. When they foul, they’ve been called for fouls,” Holmgren said. “At the end of the day, I only have one point of view out there. I can’t see the whole play, every play, all play. So I can’t really speak toward what’s happening on every single possession. I feel like it’s a physical game of basketball. That’s what the playoffs are. We just have to come out and be ready for that.”

The Thunder have not indicated any strategic changes in how they defend Jokic, according to head coach Mark Daigneault, but the physical tone of the NBA series is undeniable.

Gordon voices frustration

Following Game 2, Gordon aired his grievances in an interview with ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, criticizing the lack of whistle-blowing on Jokic’s defenders of the Thunder.

“If they’re going to let ’em push him, shove him, put two hands on him, root him out, use the knee, elbows—all types of stuff they’re doing to him—that’s not necessarily legal,” Gordon said. “There’s not much you can do. Jok’s got to play through it. If they’re not going to call it, they’re not going to call it. But they’re fouling the guy.”

Gordon went on to argue that referees are often punishing Jokic for retaliating after the initial contact. “They’re calling the second foul almost every time. They’re fouling Joker first, and then Jok is reactionary. And they do get the second foul a lot of the time,” he added. “But they’re fouling him—point blank, period—throughout the game. You can’t call every foul or you’d be blowing the whistle every play, but they’re fouling him.”

With the series shifting to Denver for a pivotal Game 3, both teams know the physical tone has been set—and the pressure is mounting. The Nuggets, aiming for a second Finals appearance in three years, face a critical test against a Thunder squad eager to prove its playoff mettle.

According to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne, Gordon voiced his frustration bluntly: “If they’re going to let ’em push him, shove him, put two hands on him, root him out, use the knee, elbows—all types of stuff they’re doing to him—that’s not necessarily legal. There’s not much you can do. Jok’s got to play through it. If they’re not going to call it, they’re not going to call it. But they’re fouling the guy.”

Gordon went on to describe what he sees as a pattern of delayed calls that consistently hurt Denver’s rhythm. “They’re calling the second foul almost every time. They’re fouling Joker first, and then Jok is reactionary. And they do get the second foul a lot of the time,” he said.

“But they’re fouling him—point blank, period—throughout the game. You can’t call every foul or you’d be blowing the whistle every play, but they’re fouling him.” Aaron Gordon said. Nuggets have a lot of work to do, if they want to make the NBA Finals.

Jokic doesn’t dwell on officiating

While Gordon aired his grievances, Jokic took a more composed approach. Rather than focusing on missed calls, the Serbian star pointed to a lack of energy, effort, and execution from his team in the blowout loss.

“Basically, it was one team playing tonight,” Jokic said postgame. “Even the turnovers, the misses — they were aggressive. They were rebounding the ball. They were just better. They were much, much better than us today, and that’s why the score was so bad.”

He doubled down on that message. “They were just better in every segment of the game. They were going by us, they were rebounding the ball. They were just better.” The box score confirmed it: Oklahoma City controlled the boards, shared the ball, and brought relentless defensive pressure from the opening tip. The Nuggets, still recovering from a grueling seven-game NBA series against the Clippers, appeared a step slow all night.

Westbrook shines off the bench in losing effort

While Jokic wasn’t at his best and Denver struggled collectively, one unexpected bright spot emerged: Russell Westbrook. Despite inconsistent play and questionable decisions at times this postseason, Westbrook delivered a gritty performance in Game 2 against OKC, showing flashes of the fire and leadership that once made him an MVP. He finished with 19 points off the bench and played with visible intensity, even as the game slipped away.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has taken full control of his career by choosing to move forward without an agent. The Oklahoma City Thunder star recently spoke about his decision. He kept his explanation simple and to the point. “Just felt like it was the best decision for my career going forward…Nothing more than that,” stated Shai.

By managing his contracts and endorsements himself, Shai joins a rare group of players who prefer direct control over their careers. While many stars rely on agents for negotiations and branding, his decision shows confidence in his current situation with the Thunder. With his long-term deal secured, his focus remains on leading OKC to success. He seems comfortable shaping his own path.

This decision highlights Shai’s maturity and strong sense of direction. He has steadily risen to superstardom, proving his value as a franchise cornerstone. However, this does not guarantee he will stay with the Oklahoma City Thunder forever. Despite this, Chris Haynes from Yahoo Sports shared an important information. Simon G from I Love Management will still handle Shai’s marketing and off-the-court matters.

Not Shai: Nuggets’ Aaron Gordon shares his pick for the NBA MVP award

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is having an incredible season. The 26-year-old is averaging 32.2 points, making him the league’s top scorer this season. He is also leading the Oklahoma City Thunder, one of the best teams in the NBA.

However, not everyone agrees with his MVP case. Aaron Gordon has expressed a different opinion. He believes Nikola Jokic has better numbers and should be the MVP instead.

“(Jokic) got MVP last year, he’s better this year…All of his numbers are up. He’s shooting the ball better. He’s averaging a triple-double. His numbers are better than Shai’s. I get they’re on a winning team but come on bro… What are we looking at? …I don’t think it’s as close as people are making it,” stated Gordon on Run It Back.

However, Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon made it clear that Denver isn’t paying much attention to the shake-up in Los Angeles. On NBA Today, Gordon dismissed any concerns about the revamped Lakers squad. “[The Lakers] definitely have a new look to them,” Gordon said. “We don’t really concern ourselves with other teams… We focus on Denver Nuggets basketball.”

Gordon’s comments highlight the mindset that has helped the Nuggets remain a serious contender. Their unwavering focus on internal growth rather than external noise is a defining trait of their championship-caliber squad.

The Nuggets’ championship mentality

With Jokic setting the tone, Jamal Murray stepping up in clutch moments, and Gordon providing elite defensive versatility, the Nuggets have built a culture centered around stability and confidence. Unlike teams that rely on blockbuster trades to stay relevant, Denver has kept its core intact, developing chemistry that continues to be a major factor in its success.

This approach separates them from teams chasing the spotlight. While other franchises scramble to assemble superteams, the Nuggets trust the foundation they’ve built—one that already led them to a championship.

Can Denver’s mindset carry them to another title?

The Nuggets currently hold a 37-19 record, sitting third in the Western Conference behind the Memphis Grizzlies and Oklahoma City Thunder. While those teams are seen as serious threats, the playoffs are a different beast.

Experience, chemistry, and resilience often outweigh regular-season records when it comes to postseason success. Denver has already proven it can perform under pressure, and that battle-tested mentality will be key as they push for another deep playoff run.

By staying true to their identity and blocking out the noise, the Nuggets put themselves in the best position to defend their NBA title—regardless of how the rest of the league reshapes itself.