Johnson's Possible Return Tests the Five That Just Won Without Him
Denver finished Saturday with Brazile in the fifth spot, and Monday's expected returns force a choice about which five to trust.
Denver beat New Orleans 141-135 in overtime after trailing by 23, and the group on the floor at the end did not include Cameron Johnson. Johnson, Alpha Diallo and Spencer Jones carry estimated returns of Monday against Golden State.
Who finished the game?
Gordon, Braun, Murray, Jokic and Trevon Brazile played the last five minutes and were on the floor at the final horn. Brazile ended with 17 points and nine rebounds. His putback with nine seconds left made it 141-135. Nugg Love wrote that he is making a permanent rotation place hard to deny.
What does Monday change?
Golden State visits Monday, October 26, on Peacock and NBC Sports Network. Johnson, Diallo and Jones are all listed out with an estimated return of that date. An estimate is not a clearance. Julian Strawther is listed out until November 29.
What is the number?
13.5. That was the net rating of the Gordon, Jokic, Murray, Johnson and Braun five in 2025-26, in a sample the brief itself calls small. Johnson has played 11 minutes this season, so the group has barely met. The passing lines are there: Jokic had 10 assists, Murray hit eight threes, and the bench scored 40.
What is the open question?
If Johnson is cleared, does Adelman restore the old five or keep Brazile in the closing group? One option has the better record behind it. The other won the game that mattered Saturday. Denver then plays at New Orleans on Wednesday, so the answer comes quickly.
When is Cameron Johnson expected back for the Nuggets?
His estimated return date is October 26, the day Denver hosts the Warriors. He is listed out with a right ankle injury until then.
Who do the Nuggets play next?
They host Golden State on October 26, then play at New Orleans on October 28 and at Phoenix on October 30.
