The Denver Nuggets have gone 1-4 in their past five games, losing to quality opponents in each matchup. However, could the lack of Aaron Gordon being out there be the determining factor?

Looking at the Nuggets' defensive rating based on when Gordon has been healthy and injured, the team is one of the best in the league when Gordon is healthy.

Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray might be the All-Star leaders of this team, but Gordon is easily the third-most important piece on this roster.