A. Rahman
The Denver Nuggets are getting a huge boost tonight as three‑time NBA Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokić is back in the lineup against the Los Angeles Clippers at Ball Arena in Denver. It will be his first action since he suffered a knee injury on December 29.
Jokić had been listed as questionable on the injury report, but multiple sources confirmed he was cleared to play and is expected to start the game after missing 16 contests. The injury — a hyperextended left knee diagnosed after a game against the Miami Heat — interrupted one of the best statistical seasons of his career.
Before the injury, Jokić was producing near historic numbers, averaging around 29.6 points, 12.2 rebounds and 11 assists per game while shooting a career‑best from three‑point range, and he leads the NBA in triple‑doubles this season. His return not only gives Denver a major on‑court lift but also helps him stay on track for eligibility in end‑of‑season awards.
Nuggets coach David Adelman confirmed Jokić will be on a minutes restriction early in the game as he works his way back into full basketball shape. Denver has managed a respectable 10‑6 record without him, but the team has dealt with additional injuries, including the recent loss of Aaron Gordon for at least a month. Christian Braun and Cameron Johnson remain out as well.
Clippers coach Tyronn Lue has acknowledged the challenge of matching up with Jokić’s unique skill set, pointing out that Denver’s offense changes significantly when he is back on the floor. With Jokić’s creativity, passing and scoring, the Nuggets suddenly look like a very different team.
The matchup with the Clippers has extra significance for Denver as it comes just before a key stretch in their schedule and gives Jokić a chance to return to rhythm before Sunday’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Tonight’s game tips off at 9 p.m. Eastern Time, and Jokić’s return will be one of the most watched storylines across the NBA. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how quickly he settles back in and how his presence affects Denver’s title hopes in the second half of the season.
