NBA Talk: Nene Hilario's Heel Strain Posing Problem for Nuggets

After starting the season 6-2, the Denver Nuggets have lost their last two games, and part of the problem is the status of center Nene Hilario.

Hilario played on Monday in the Nuggets' 94-81 loss to the New Orleans Hornets, but he was clearly not 100 percent, and he had to take a painkilling shot for his left heel strain before the game, according to Christopher Dempsey of the Denver Post.

Said Hilario, via the Post, "Half the time when I play, it gets worse after the game."

It's worth noting that players are more susceptible to injuries this season because of the condensed 66-game schedule. We've already seen a good deal of injuries, including to Miami Heat stars Dwyane Wade and LeBron James, and it has now become a legitimate concern throughout the league.

Hilario's injury has the potential to derail the Nuggets' season if it turns out to be serious. He's by far their best big man and the loss of him in the interior would make it hard for the Nuggets to limit opponents' scoring.

Last season, Hilario averaged 14.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.1 steals and 1.0 block while shooting 61 percent from the floor. Through seven games this season, Hilario is averaging 12.0 points and 7.9 rebounds while shooting 49 percent from the floor.

With Hilario out against the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday, the Nuggets were forced to play small ball in San Antonio as head coach George Karl only gave Hilario's backup Kosta Koufos six minutes.

The result was the Spurs scoring 121 points and shooting 55 percent from the floor.

The Nuggets will be cautious with Hilario, but if they start losing games, they may have to push him.