Nuggets set to lose Julian Strawther until December

Denver Nuggets have been dealt an early blow ahead of the 2026–27 NBA season, with Julian Strawther expected to miss significant time after spraining his left knee during a preseason game against the Los Angeles Clippers.

The 24-year-old guard will be reevaluated in six weeks, making a December return the likely scenario. Selected 29th overall in the 2023 Draft after playing at Gonzaga, Strawther was expected to assume greater responsibilities following the departures of Peyton Watson and Tim Hardaway Jr.

Last season, he appeared in 57 games, averaging 7.2 points while shooting an impressive 38.7% from three-point range. His absence leaves coach David Adelman short of another reliable perimeter threat. DeMar DeRozan’s arrival brings experience and scoring, but Denver will need Spencer Jones and Zeke Nnaji to step up. Following a preseason victory over the Lakers, the Nuggets open their campaign against Oklahoma City on October 22.