Nikola Jokic is expected to return to the Denver Nuggets squad at some point in the upcoming five games, although his position in the near future remains uncertain. Two MVPs missed the Nuggets’ last four games due to a left ankle impact, and head coach Michael Malone said Jokic would not be playing at home against the Chicago Bulls on Monday. “We just want to go home and see where he is,” Denver defeated the Houston Rockets after two straight losses after a 116-111 win over the Houston Rockets on Sunday.
Jokic’s absence did not stop the Nuggets from staying competitive, but they remained third in the Western Conference, behind the Rockets. With the playoffs approaching, the team’s main goal is to ensure that Jokic is completely healthy in the playoffs. Malone stressed the importance of putting the starting lineup together, as the Nuggets don’t have many opportunities to go all out this season. The team’s chances of success in the playoffs are largely dependent on the health of their Superstar Center, and their absence highlights the need for Jamal Murray and other major players to step up.
While Jokic hasn’t played since March 15, he almost made a triple-double against the Washington Wizards at the time, the Nuggets’ upcoming Nuggets offered a potential opportunity for his return. Jokic has been dealing with ankle impact and right elbow contusions, although recent injuries have not been a major issue. In his absence, Aaron Gordon returned to the court after missing a few games, Jamal Murray returned after appearing for two games due to an ankle injury.
Malone said that while Jokic may miss Monday’s game, he hopes he will come back at the Nuggets’ home, which could allow the team to get some much-needed chemistry ahead of the playoffs. Denver’s main goal remains to ensure Jokic is fully healthy and ready to lead them into the playoffs, as his presence is crucial to the Nuggets’ chances of moving forward.
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