When Danilo Gallinari tore his left ACL at the end of the 2012-13 season, the Denver Nuggets’ hopes of a deep playoff run were essentially ended. Gallinari suffered the injury during a late season matchup with Dallas, and without its leading sharpshooter, Denver was upset in the first round by Golden State.
After being diagnosed as an ACL tear, it was yet to be seen whether Gallo would be ready for any of the 2013-14 season after he underwent surgery. In January 2014, his knee required a second surgery after a setback during rehab from the initial procedure, ending his campaign before it began.
Fast-forward 18 months. Gallinari is back in a Nuggets uniform at Media Day, and more importantly very close to returning to game action. Although not fully cleared to play, his knee is apparently healthy, and he is ready to help Denver get back to the playoffs after the Nuggets missed the postseason last year for the first time since 2003.
This photo was taken from his official Instagram on Tuesday.
For Nuggets fans, this is a sight for sore eyes.
Gallo helped lead the Nuggets to a franchise-record 57 wins and a playoff berth in the 2012-13 season. He posted a career=best 16.2 points per game, good for second on the team behind Ty Lawson.
Hopefully for Denver, Gallo’s knee will be fully healed and ready to begin the 2014-15 season when they face the Detroit Pistons on October 29.
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