Each of these players missing would change the entire game for the Nuggets and allow the Lakers some small advantage. We should know closer to the start of the game if Denver will

Michael Malone explains the delineation between Aaron Gordon missing a game because he can’t play and missing a game because he can’t play well.

So, regarding whether Aaron Gordon is playing tonight vs. the Lakers, the Nuggets should cautiously approach the forward's current injury given his previous absences. However, a win over Los Angeles would go a long way toward securing Denver's position atop the Western Conference playoff bracket.