Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon has been conspicuously absent from the team's post-game dinners, which have coincided with a three-game winning streak and a 3-2 series lead over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The Denver Nuggets have found a winning formula in their players-only dinners, which have been credited with sparking a three-game winning streak and a 3-2 lead over the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference semifinals. However, one notable player has been absent from these team-building meals: forward Aaron Gordon.
Following the Nuggets' disappointing start to the series, where they dropped the first two games in Minnesota, the team decided to implement the players-only dinners as an opportunity to bond and refocus. The dinners have since become a regular occurrence, with the team gathering at a steakhouse in Minneapolis after each game.
While the team has rallied around these dinners, Gordon has been conspicuously absent. Sources within the team have confirmed that Gordon has not attended any of the dinners since the series began.
The reason for Gordon's exclusion is not entirely clear, but it is believed that the team's coaching staff feels he needs to focus more on his individual performance. Gordon has been a key contributor for the Nuggets this season, averaging 16.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game in the regular season. However, he has struggled in the playoffs, averaging just 10.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game.
Gordon himself seems to understand the reasoning behind his exclusion. When asked by teammate DeAndre Jordan if he would be attending the team dinner following Game 5, Jordan responded, "Yeah — not you though. We'll see you next round (of the playoffs). Sorry, dawg. We'll bring you some takeout though."
Gordon responded with a nod of understanding, saying, "I understand. I understand."
Despite being excluded from the dinners, Gordon has maintained a positive attitude and has continued to contribute to the team's success. In Game 5, he scored 14 points and grabbed 5 rebounds, helping the Nuggets to a 112-97 victory.
The Nuggets are planning to continue with the players-only dinners for the remainder of the conference semifinals, with Gordon remaining excluded. The team is hoping that the dinners will continue to foster a sense of camaraderie and help them to close out the series against the Timberwolves.
Gordon's exclusion from the dinners has raised questions about his role within the team. While he is a valuable player, his absence from these team-building events suggests that the coaching staff may have some concerns about his commitment to the Nuggets.
However, Gordon has consistently expressed his desire to win with the Nuggets. He recently signed a four-year, $92 million contract extension with the team, indicating his long-term commitment to Denver.
Whether or not Gordon's absence from the dinners will ultimately affect the Nuggets' playoff run remains to be seen. The team has certainly benefited from the dinners so far, but Gordon's individual performance could still be a key factor in determining their fate.
