The Denver Nuggets are set to host Game 1 of the first round of the NBA Playoffs on Saturday, and they’ll do so against a Los Angeles Clippers team that’s been playing some of the best basketball in the league over the last month.
Yet, Denver is on a mission to get back to the NBA Finals after falling short in the second round last year, and they still have the bulk of their core in place, which includes Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr., and Aaron Gordon.
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While nearly everyone is active for the Nuggets on Saturday, there was an intriguing development over the last 24 hours that caught the attention of NBA and Nuggets fans: a noticeable change in Gordon’s appearance.
During a recent interview, Gordon appeared with a black eye and visible swelling on the right side of his face, which left fans wondering what had happened.
Check it out:
Fan reactions:
“Bro be doing MMA on his off days haha,” A fan said.
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“He looks like just got out from a fight,” Someone else added.
“Man looks like he just walked off a UFC fight instead of a basketball court! What went down out there?” Another fan posted.
One more fan commented, “He looks like he fought at UFC 314.”
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon (32) in the first half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Gordon is an integral part of the Nuggets’ success and will likely be tasked with guarding Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard throughout the series—a responsibility that stands as the toughest assignment for any defender on Denver’s roster.
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This season, Gordon is averaging 14.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 0.5 steals per game, while shooting 53.1% from the field and an impressive 43.6% from three-point range.
Related: Clippers Star Sends Clear Nikola Jokic Message Before Playoff Matchup