Denver Nuggets forward Cameron Johnson underwent an MRI on Wednesday, Dec. 24, which revealed a bone bruise without structural damage, NBA insider Michael Scotto reported. Johnson was sidelined with a right knee hyperextension injury, leaving a key scoring opportunity out of Denver’s rotation.
Prior to the injury, Johnson was averaging 15 points on 50.6 percent shooting from the field and 51.8 percent from three in his last 16 games, highlighting his efficiency as a floor spacer. His absence impacts Denver’s wing rotation alongside Aaron Gordon, who remains out with a right hamstring strain, and Christian Braun, who is sidelined with a left ankle sprain.
The Nuggets, who have a 21-8 record, enter Thursday’s Christmas Eve game against the Minnesota Timberwolves after a narrow 131-130 loss to Dallas. Denver had previously handled Utah 135-112 on December 22.
Minnesota travels to Denver with a 20-10 record and a three-game winning streak, including a 103-100 win over Milwaukee and a 112-107 victory against Oklahoma City. The Timberwolves will monitor the status of Jaden McDaniels, who is listed as questionable with a left oblique contusion, as his defensive assignments will be crucial against Denver’s run-heavy offense.
The Timberwolves rely heavily on Anthony Edwards, who averages 28.7 points per game, while Julius Randle contributes 22.6 points and 5.5 assists, providing secondary play.
Despite the absence, Denver continues to center its offense around Nikola Jokic, who is averaging a triple-double with 28.9 points, 12.0 rebounds and 10.9 assists. Jamal Murray complements him with 25.1 points per game and shoots 45.7 percent from beyond the arc.
This game marks the first meeting at Ball Arena between these Western Conference contenders after Denver defeated the Timberwolves in Minneapolis with 127-114 and 123-112 wins earlier this season.
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