Denver Nuggets guard Julian Strawther sidelined with knee injury

The Denver Nuggets will be without guard Julian Strawther for at least the first six weeks of the 2026-27 NBA season. Strawther suffered a left knee sprain during a preseason game against the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday, October 14.

The injury occurred in the third quarter when his knee bent awkwardly during play. The team announced that the 24-year-old will be reevaluated in six weeks, meaning his earliest potential return would be in late November. This absence will impact the Nuggets' rotation as they prepare for their season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder on October 22.

With Strawther sidelined, players such as Alpha Diallo and Cam Whitmore are expected to see increased opportunities. Diallo, noted for his defensive capabilities, may see more minutes in the rotation to compensate for the loss of Strawther’s offensive presence.