NBA: Nuggets scratch Aaron Gordon for Game 5

The Denver Nuggets will try to stave off elimination in Game 5 of their first-round playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday night in Denver, but they will be without key forward Aaron Gordon due to a calf injury.

The team ruled Gordon out on Monday evening ahead of the crucial matchup. The Timberwolves currently lead the series 3-1 following their 112-96 victory in Game 4 on Saturday.

In that game, Gordon played through obvious limitations in his movement. He finished with nine points on 4-of-11 shooting from the field, including 1-of-5 from three-point range.

The veteran forward suffered the calf injury during Game 2 of the series and was sidelined for Game 3 before attempting a return in Game 4. Gordon has averaged 16.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game this season, serving as a key two-way presence for Denver.

The Nuggets will now have to adjust their rotation as they face elimination without one of their most versatile contributors.

Neither team will be at full strength in Game 5. The Minnesota Timberwolves will be without guard Donte DiVincenzo, who suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon in Game 4, as well as All-Star guard Anthony Edwards, who sustained a hyperextended knee and bone bruise in the same contest.

Edwards is considered week-to-week should Minnesota advance further in the playoffs.

— Field Level Media / Reuters