Injury Update on Cam Johnson
The Denver Nuggets may be without forward Cam Johnson for an undisclosed period after he sustained a bone bruise in his right knee during a 131-130 defeat against the Dallas Mavericks. ESPN’s Shams Charania provided the update, indicating that Johnson’s MRI has thankfully ruled out any serious injury or structural damage.
Details of the Incident
The incident transpired in the closing moments of the game, with less than ten minutes remaining on the clock. Johnson was contesting for an offensive rebound when Mavericks player Cooper Flagg, who notably scored 33 points on 14-for-21 shooting, missed a running shot in the paint. In the pursuit of the rebound, Johnson leapt for the ball but ultimately came crashing down awkwardly, grimacing in visible pain and clutching his right knee shortly thereafter.
Following the injury, play was halted after Ryan Nembhard made a mid-range jumper that put the Mavericks up 109-108 over the Nuggets, with Nembhard finishing the night with 11 points and 7 assists. Medical staff attended to Johnson on the court, and although he managed to leave the game on his own power, the Nuggets labeled him “questionable” for a return due to a right knee sprain. Ultimately, he did not return to the game.
Johnson’s Injury History and Current Performance
It’s worth noting that Johnson has a history with knee injuries, having torn the meniscus in the same knee early in the previous season while he was with the Phoenix Suns. However, the current injury seems to be less severe.
In his ongoing season with the Nuggets, this being his first as part of the team following a summer trade that saw significant roster changes, Johnson has averaged 11.7 points per game with a shooting percentage of 46.1%, including an impressive 42.9% from beyond the arc. The Nuggets acquired Johnson in exchange for Michael Porter Jr. as part of a trade that reflects their strong commitment to enhancing their roster around star player Nikola Jokić.
Importance of Johnson to the Nuggets
Having started in all 28 games this season for the 21-8 Nuggets, Johnson is recognized for his proficient shooting ability from three-point range, boasting a career average of 39.4%. His contributions are essential as Denver competes in a highly competitive Western Conference. The Nuggets will closely monitor Johnson’s recovery in hopes of having him back in action soon.
