Heading into Game 4, the Denver Nuggets are going to remain shorthanded against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Peyton Watson is still working his way back as he deals with a hamstring strain.
The last time the Nuggets saw their young standout on the court was during the April 1 game against the Utah Jazz.
At the time, Watson checked in for just nine minutes. After that, he was ruled out for the final five games of the regular season.
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 04: Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks looks to pass the ball past Peyton Watson #8 of the Denver Nuggets during the first quarter at Madison Square Garden on February 04, 2026 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Pamela Smith/Getty Images)
Watson seemed to be making positive progress in the week leading up to the Game 1 matchup against the Timberwolves at home. However, the Nuggets ruled him out.
That trend wouldn’t stop throughout the first three games of the first-round series. By missing Saturday’s action, it will mark nine absences in a row.
The Nuggets Are Falling Behind
GettyWASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 22: Peyton Watson #8 of the Denver Nuggets celebrates with Aaron Gordon #32 after a play against the Washington Wizards during the second half at Capital One Arena on January 22, 2026 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
The last thing the Nuggets needed was more bad news on the injury front. The absence of Watson was expected. However, the Nuggets recently downgraded Aaron Gordon as well.
The starting forward was downgraded on the injury report ahead of Game 3. Gordon was diagnosed with calf tightness. Although he was listed as probable, the starting forward ended up not playing.
“We were waiting to see how he was going to react to it,” Adelman told reporters this week, regarding Gordon’s pre-Game 3 status.
“Today, there wasn’t much improvement—so he’s out—I can’t tell the future and what tomorrow’s going to bring,” Adelman added. “I have no idea, it just seems like it has happened so many times. I think the guys know this is Game 3 of the playoffs, you just get ready to play.”
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 14: Aaron Gordon #32 of the Denver Nuggets looks on during the second half of a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on March 14, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
Going into Game 4, Gordon is listed as questionable.
The Nuggets are looking to avoid falling into a 1-3 hole before the series returns to Denver next week. The Saturday night matchup is slated for an 8:30 PM ET.