Aaron Gordon has emerged as a pivotal figure in the Denver Nuggets’ quest for another NBA championship, showcasing his versatility and clutch performances throughout the early stages of the postseason. His impact extends beyond the stat sheet, solidifying his role as a vital component of the team’s success. Gordon’s contributions have been instrumental in the Nuggets’ ability to navigate challenging matchups and secure crucial victories.
In a thrilling Game 1 encounter of the Western Conference semifinals against the formidable Oklahoma City Thunder, Gordon delivered a decisive blow that ultimately sealed the win for Denver. With a mere 2.8 seconds remaining on the clock, Gordon confidently launched a 3-pointer that found the bottom of the net, propelling the Nuggets to a 121-119 lead. This clutch shot proved to be the difference-maker, granting Denver a hard-fought victory and a 1-0 advantage in the series.
Gordon’s unwavering confidence in his shot was evident in his postgame remarks. "When I shot it, did I know it was in? I knew it wasn’t a miss," he asserted, highlighting his belief in his abilities and his commitment to delivering in critical moments. This level of self-assurance has become a hallmark of Gordon’s game, enabling him to perform under pressure and contribute significantly to the Nuggets’ success.
One of the most notable aspects of Gordon’s game this season has been his improved 3-point shooting. After maintaining a career average of 33.1% from beyond the arc throughout his 11-year NBA career, Gordon has elevated his game to new heights, shooting an impressive 44% from three this season. This significant improvement is a testament to his dedication and hard work in refining his offensive skills.
"I’ve worked a lot on my jumper," Gordon acknowledged. "You guys have seen the maturation of it. It’s nice to have it all culminate in a game-winner." Gordon’s commitment to developing his shooting touch has not only enhanced his individual performance but has also made him a more versatile and dangerous player for the Nuggets.
This game-winning shot against the Thunder was not an isolated incident for Gordon during the postseason. The veteran power forward has a proven track record of delivering in clutch situations. In a previous series against the L.A. Clippers, Gordon secured a 101-99 Game 4 victory for Denver with a remarkable putback dunk with just .01 seconds left on the clock.
After Jokić’s 3-pointer fell short, Gordon displayed his exceptional athleticism and determination by collecting the rebound and slamming it home before time expired. According to the NBA, this was the first game-winning, buzzer-beating dunk in the league’s playoffs in the play-by-play era (since 1998), further solidifying Gordon’s reputation as a clutch performer. The dunk propelled the Nuggets to even the series 2-2, shifting the momentum in their favor.
Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets’ superstar center, has lauded Gordon’s contributions to the team, recognizing his value beyond the box score. "He’s the soul of this team," Jokic declared about Gordon. "He’s a glue guy and doesn’t get as much respect as he deserves, but he doesn’t need attention, he knows what he’s doing, and I’m happy for him." Jokic’s praise underscores the importance of Gordon’s presence in the Nuggets’ locker room and on the court.
Gordon’s impact extends beyond his on-court performances, as he has also captured the admiration of the Denver fan base through his actions off the court. He became a beloved figure among the Nuggets faithful when he was seen celebrating with fans in the street after the team’s NBA championship victory in 2023. This genuine display of appreciation for the fans solidified his connection with the city and its basketball community.
In addition to his on-court and off-court contributions, Gordon has also demonstrated remarkable resilience and strength in the face of personal tragedy. Following the death of his older brother, Drew Gordon, a former professional basketball player, in a car accident in May of 2024, Aaron stepped up to support his family.
Aaron helped move his nephews and his sister-in-law, Angela, to Denver, providing them with a supportive environment and the opportunity to heal. Gordon’s commitment to his family was evident when he was joined by his two nephews during a postgame press conference on Monday.
"It gets greater later, so stick with it," Aaron shared during the press conference when asked what advice he would offer his nephews. "Be a demonstration of resilience." Gordon’s message of hope and perseverance resonated deeply, highlighting his character and his ability to inspire others through his words and actions.
While Gordon’s contributions have been crucial to the Nuggets’ success, the team also relies on the brilliance of its other key players. In Game 1 against the Thunder, Jokic and Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander showcased why they are among the three finalists for the NBA MVP award.
Jokic delivered a dominant performance, recording a double-double with 42 points and 22 rebounds in 42 minutes of play for Denver. Gilgeous-Alexander countered with 33 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists in 40 minutes for OKC. Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is the other finalist for the prestigious award.
The NBA has been announcing several regular-season award winners in recent days, but the date for the MVP award announcement has yet to be determined.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets will host the Thunder on Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. ET at the Ball Arena. The game will be broadcast on TNT, providing fans with another opportunity to witness the exciting matchup between these two talented teams. As the series progresses, Gordon’s role in the Nuggets’ success will undoubtedly remain a key factor, and his ability to deliver in crucial moments will be essential for Denver’s championship aspirations.
