Gordon sidelined with hand, face injuries from dog bite

Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon will remain away from the team after suffering lacerations to his face and hand due to a dog bite on Christmas Day, the team announced.

Gordon injured his shooting hand and required 21 stitches in total, sources told The Athletic's Shams Charania. He is in good condition, according to the team.

Nuggets head coach Michael Malone characterized Gordon's injury as a "traumatic" situation, according to Vinny Benedetto of the Denver Gazette. The coach said he told Gordon to take as much time as he needs.

The Denver forward played on Christmas Day, tallying 16 points and 10 rebounds in a win over the Golden State Warriors.

Gordon is averaging 13.6 points, 6.9 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and a steal in 28 games for the defending champions. He missed four games earlier this season due to a heel injury.

The Nuggets play the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday.