In the second round of the NBA playoffs, the defending champion Denver Nuggets faced a rough start against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Led by two-time NBA All-Star Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves won the first two games of the Western Conference semifinals series. However, the Nuggets were able to bounce back in Game 3 and Game 4, overcoming the hostile environment in Minnesota and securing wins. The team continued their winning streak with a 112-97 victory in Game 5, bringing the series to 3-2 in favor of the Nuggets.
Shortly after falling behind in the series, the Nuggets decided to have players-only dinners as they saw success in the games following these gatherings. However, one player, Aaron Gordon, has been noticeably absent from these dinners. Despite being left out, Gordon seems to understand the situation and is taking it in stride. He acknowledges the decision and remains supportive of his teammates. The team plans to continue with the players-only meals without Gordon for the remainder of the conference semifinals, aiming for continued success on the court.
During a locker room exchange after Game 5, Gordon inquired with teammate DeAndre Jordan about attending the team dinner. Jordan, who organized the dinners, mentioned that Gordon would not be included but assured him they would bring him some takeout and hoped to see him at the next round of playoffs. Gordon accepted the decision and expressed his understanding of the situation. The team dinners were initiated as a way for the players to bond following their initial struggles against the Timberwolves, with the first dinner held at a steakhouse in Minneapolis.
Gordon did not attend the team dinner after Game 2 but instead opted for some retail therapy, purchasing three-wheel cars for his family. Despite missing the gathering, Gordon found a way to relax and indulge in some personal leisure. As the series progressed to Game 6 with the Timberwolves hosting the Nuggets, the team remained focused on their goal of advancing to the next round of the playoffs. With the support of his teammates and a positive attitude towards the situation, Gordon continues to contribute to the team’s efforts on and off the court.
As the playoffs continue and the competition intensifies, the Nuggets have found success in implementing players-only dinners as a means of bonding and uniting the team. While Gordon may have been excluded from these gatherings, he remains supportive of his teammates and maintains a positive attitude. With the series against the Timberwolves reaching a critical point in Game 6, the Nuggets are determined to secure a victory and advance to the next round of the playoffs. Despite the challenges they face, the team remains united and focused on achieving their ultimate goal of winning the NBA championship.
