Watch: Recapping Aaron Gordon’s 7 dunks against Phoenix Suns
Aaron Gordon may not participate in a Dunk Contest ever again, but that's not stopping him from giving fans memorable highlights to look back on. It was just one of those nights for him during the Denver Nuggets' 128-125 OT win over the Phoenix Suns on Christmas Day.
Gordon went off for 28 points and 13 rebounds on the night, shooting 11-of-18 from the field. Seven of his field goals were highlight dunks, with the last one even getting tremendous consideration for "Dunk of the Year."
Gordon put Suns guard Landry Shamet on a poster with the Nuggets up one and 24 seconds left in overtime. That gave Denver a 3-point lead, which put them in a comfortable position to record a Christmas Day win.
Here's a compilation of all of Gordon's 2022 Christmas Day dunks, including that monster jam on Shamet (via Action Network):
All of Aaron Gordon's dunks tonight 🔥 https://t.co/4hNpXMKwa7
Fans will be hoping Gordon, 27, makes a U-turn on his decision to participate in the dunk contest again. His athleticism and dunking ability has remained elite through the years and thoroughly entertaining, as witnessed during Sunday's Christmas Day game between the Nuggets and Suns.
Aaron Gordon's career year with the Denver Nuggets could be crucial for their success
Aaron Gordon is in the middle of his best NBA season. He is averaging 17.5 points per game, shooting 61.1% from the field, including 39.0% from 3-point range. All of these statistics are a career-high for the former Orlando Magic forward.
Gordon's individual success is translating into collective success for the Nuggets. Thanks to his 17 PPG as a third or fourth scoring option and defensive ability. Gordon could also make a significant impact in the postseason for Denver, who are first in the West with a 21-11 record.
The Nuggets have shaped an excellent roster with the additions of 3-and-D specialists like Bruce Brown Jr. and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who have seamlessly fit in with the Nuggets' core. That's helped ease the pressure on Gordon, especially defensively.
Aaron Gordon needs to ensure he is consistent with his production moving forward. Since Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. returned from injuries, the Nuggets remain cautious with their workload. Hence, Gordon will have to continue stepping up when needed to carry out a bigger role offensively.
Securing homecourt in the playoffs will be crucial for the Nuggets' championship aspirations. Gordon's performances are vital in making that happen.