After a shaky start to the season with two straight losses, the Denver Nuggets managed to find their rhythm and clinched the fourth seed in the Western Conference. Now, they’re set for a first-round showdown against the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday. But before the postseason tips off, attention has shifted from the court to a surprising concern surrounding forward Aaron Gordon.
Gordon met with reporters on Friday to share his thoughts on the Nuggets’ playoff series and how the team has been adjusting after their head coach, Michael Malone, was fired earlier this month. Speaking about the team dynamic, Gordon shared how the roster is focused on collective accountability and open communication.
“I think it’s just kind of like the open line of communication. I think everybody has a little bit more of an input. We all know that we need to come together and hold each other accountable,” Gordon said.
Aaron Gordon on the differences between a David Adelman and Michael Malone practice:
— DNVR Nuggets (@DNVR_Nuggets) April 18, 2025
"Everybody has a little bit more of an input." pic.twitter.com/XTMyofg4PV
However, it wasn’t his words that caught everyone’s attention; rather, it was his appearance. A visible black eye and facial bruising under Gordon’s left eye became the center of conversation as fans began questioning what had happened.
Gordon only played 51 games this season due to a right calf issue and a left ankle sprain. But, the Nuggets star managed to average 14.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists.
Fans React To Aaron Gordon’s Facial Bruise With Humor And Concern
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While Aaron Gordon appeared composed during the interview, fans on social media quickly noticed the bruise and began speculating. Some wondered if something had gone down in practice or behind the scenes. Others leaned into jokes and wild guesses.
“He got into the fight with that young bull on the team,” one fan speculated.
He got into the fight with that young bull on the team
— X King Carl III (@cm3twitt) April 19, 2025
“So this is why he’s always injured lol,” another commented bluntly.
So this is why he’s always injured lol
— El_DodgerDawg (@El_DodgerDawg) April 19, 2025
“Did the Jokic brothers beat him up?“ one comment read.
Did the Jokic brothers beat him up?
— Ricky Chu (@RikDaddy) April 19, 2025
“A dog attack him again damn,” one fan wrote.
A dog attack him again damn
— Lakers Hoops (50-32) (@HoopLakers) April 19, 2025
“Damn wtf hit him? A Westbrick?” someone joked.
Damn wtf hit him?
— Lou-Lou 🗽♊️ (@Wxggxvxllx) April 19, 2025
A Westbrick?
“This interviewer asking everything except what we want to know right now,” a sarcastic fan called out the media for not addressing the obvious.
This interviewer asking everything except what we want to know right now 👀
— Rose (@generalgail) April 19, 2025
Gordon last played in the season finale against the Houston Rockets. No significant injury was reported during that game. Fans are hoping Gordon’s facial bruise is nothing more than a minor incident and won’t affect his ability to contribute when it matters most.
