Nuggets Await Aaron Gordon's Return From Hamstring Injury

Gordon's absence opens the door for increased roles for Cameron Johnson and Tim Hardaway Jr.

Feb. 17, 2026 at 9:23am

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The Denver Nuggets are currently 3rd in the Western Conference despite multiple key player injuries, including forward Aaron Gordon. Gordon strained his hamstring in late January and is expected to be out for 4-6 weeks, putting his return in late February or mid-March. With Gordon sidelined, Cameron Johnson and Tim Hardaway Jr. have seen increased roles, while Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic have also seen their usage rates rise.

Why it matters

Gordon's injury has created opportunities for other Nuggets players to step up, potentially impacting their fantasy basketball value. The Nuggets are a top team in the West, so Gordon's return could affect the roles and production of his teammates.

The details

Aaron Gordon has played in 23 games for the Nuggets this season, averaging a 23% usage rate. His absence has led to increased roles for Cameron Johnson (14% usage) and Tim Hardaway Jr. (18% usage), while Jamal Murray (27% usage) and Nikola Jokic (29% usage) have also seen their usage rates rise. Gordon's return may slightly affect Murray's production.

  • Gordon strained his hamstring in late January 2026.
  • Gordon is expected to be out for 4-6 weeks, putting his return in late February or mid-March 2026.

The players

Aaron Gordon

A forward for the Denver Nuggets who has been sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Nikola Jokic

The star center for the Denver Nuggets who has seen his usage rate increase during Gordon's absence.

Jamal Murray

The Nuggets' starting point guard who has also seen his usage rate rise with Gordon out.

Cameron Johnson

A Nuggets player who has taken on an increased role in Gordon's absence.

Tim Hardaway Jr.

A Nuggets player who has also seen more playing time with Gordon sidelined.

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The takeaway

Gordon's injury has created opportunities for other Nuggets players to step up, potentially impacting their fantasy basketball value. The Nuggets will be eager to get their starting forward back as they look to maintain their position in the Western Conference standings.