What happened: Denver Nuggets guard Julian Strawther suffered a left knee sprain and will miss the opening weeks of the 2026-27 season. The team said he will be re-evaluated in six weeks.

Why it matters: The absence removes a backcourt option as Denver finalizes its rotation for the 2026-27 season. The timing puts early-season minutes up for grabs among the Nuggets' remaining guards.

What to watch: Denver continues preseason preparations ahead of the 2026-27 opener. Strawther's re-evaluation will determine his return window.