Nuggets scratch Aaron Gordon (calf) for Game 5

The Denver Nuggets will be looking to avoid elimination in Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves without key contributor Aaron Gordon due to his injured calf.

The team ruled Gordon out Monday evening ahead of the game in Denver. Minnesota leads the first-round NBA playoff series three games to one, following Saturday's 112-96 win. In that game, Gordon played but was visibly limited in his movement. He finished 4-of-11 shooting from the field, including 1 of 5 from 3-point range in scoring 9 points.

The 12-year veteran sustained the injury in Game 2 of the series and did not play in Game 3.

Gordon had season averages of 16.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game.

Neither team will be at full strength Monday, as the Timberwolves will be without guard Donte DiVincenzo who suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon in Game 4 as well as All-Star Anthony Edwards, who sustained a hyperextended knee and bone bruise in that same contest.

Edwards will be week-to-week should Minnesota advance.