Denver Nuggets DVOA, Stats, & NBA Rankings

Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon (calf) is probable for Thursday's meeting with the Hornets. Gordon has battled a calf injury at various times throughout the year. Fortunately, he's remained relatively healthy of late, although he's received time off periodically to rest. Still, the 29-year-old has had one of the worst seasons of his career from a statistical standpoint, averaging only 12.1 points and 4.8 rebounds. While that won't make Gordon an attractive fantasy option for most, he's worth stashing, considering there's a good chance he'll return to form sometime soon. At any rate, if Gordon can't go for some reason, Zeke Nnaji, averaging 14.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals in two starts, will at least see increased value interest from DFS managers, regardless of his role.

Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (hamstring) isn't listed on the injury report heading into Thursday's game versus the Hornets. Westbrook last played on January 31. Unfortunately, he's missed the last seven games because of a hamstring injury. The 36-year-old had averaged 14.6 points in 17 appearances in January, a significant bump in production since averaging 9.8 points in eight games in October. However, with the Nuggets having success without Westbrook in the starting lineup, winning their previous eight contests, he may find himself coming off the bench. If that happens, he could have a tough time remaining as productive.

Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (knee) is probable for Thursday's game against Charlotte. The veteran began the 2024-25 campaign by averaging 18.8 points in four appearances in October. However, he has improved significantly on the scoring end, amassing 25.3 points in six contests in February. Murray is listed on the injury report because of left knee inflammation. But that isn't anything new, so he should be good to go barring a setback. But if Murray can't suit up, Russell Westbrook (hamstring), who is off the injury report, will likely take his spot in the rotation for the favorable matchup versus the 13-win Hornets.

Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (hamstring) is expected to get back on the court after the All-Star break, according to head coach Mike Malone. Westbrook missed the final seven games before the break due to a left hamstring strain. Before going down, Westbrook was making a solid contribution with 13 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.4 assists across 27 minutes per game. Christian Braun has been playing a bigger role lately with over 30 minutes of action in six of his last seven games. He'll continue to have increased fantasy value until Westbrook returns to the court. Fantasy managers who have Westbrook rostered should be able to get him back in their lineups after the break.

Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon (calf) has been downgraded to out ahead of Wednesday's game against the Portland Trail Blazers. He started out as probable for this game after playing in each of the last four contests. He has now worked his way down to out ahead of the final game before the All-Star break. Possibly, Denver just wants to take the cautious approach and give Gordon some additional rest and recovery time. Regardless of the reason, Julian Strawther and Zeke Nnaji should both see increased roles on Wednesday. Between the two, Strawther is the better streaming choice after back-to-back 18-point outings.