TITLE: Simpson Signs Two-Way Contract With Denver; Injury Updates on Jokic, Murray, Gordon
SLUG: simpson-joins-nuggets-jokic-murray-gordon-injury-updates
CONTENT:
KJ Simpson watched the Nuggets’ 2023 championship parade as a spectator. Two seasons later, the former University of Colorado guard is on the roster, trying to help Denver chase another title.
The 42nd pick in last year’s draft began his NBA career with the Charlotte Hornets but was waived on February 6. Denver offered a two-way deal on Thursday, and Simpson debuted the next night in Portland, contributing three points and four assists in seven minutes.
“Seeing that parade was mad inspiring,” Simpson said, recalling that day in downtown Denver. “I want to feel that one day.” Simpson added that his three college seasons in Boulder created a lasting bond with Colorado fans.
Jokic Playing Through Wrist Pain
Nikola Jokic ditched the protective tape on his right wrist Friday, yet lingering pain persists. The two-time MVP said the discomfort has been present for six years and flared up again before the All-Star break. Tape dulled the pain but also his feel for the ball, he noted.
Unfazed, Jokic produced 32 points, nine rebounds and seven assists against the Trail Blazers, including 19 points in the opening quarter as Denver built an early cushion.
Murray’s Status for Sunday Uncertain
Jamal Murray, listed as questionable Friday with right hamstring tightness, logged 25 minutes in Portland. Interim coach David Adelman suggested the guard could sit out Sunday’s 12:30 p.m. matchup at Golden State to avoid aggravation.
“If he feels anything, he’s not gonna play,” Adelman said. “We played a 7:30 game last night, 7 tonight, 12:30 on Sunday. It makes absolutely no sense for me to put him in a torture chamber and then be surprised if he gets hurt.”
Gordon Nearing Return
Aaron Gordon is progressing from a strained right hamstring sustained before the break. The Nuggets sent a trainer to Orlando during the layoff, and Gordon has since taken part in select practice drills, including dunking and one-on-one sessions. The staff plans to broaden his workload to five-on-five action, with a return projected in “a couple more weeks,” according to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon on The Hoop Collective podcast.
The Nuggets face the Warriors on Sunday before returning to Denver for a four-game homestand.
Source: Hoops Rumors
