Nikola Jokić Injury Update: What We Know About His Knee and Possible Return.

The Denver Nuggets opened the NBA season with strong momentum and have remained near the top of the Western Conference standings. However, that success has been tested following a knee injury to three-time MVP Nikola Jokić. With Denver heavily dependent on Jokić and Jamal Murray, concerns have grown about how long the team can sustain its performance without its star center. Jokić suffered a knee hyperextension during a late-December matchup against the Miami Heat. The injury occurred while he attempted to help defensively under pressure, when teammate Spencer Jones stepped on his foot. Jokić immediately collapsed to the floor and was visibly in pain, eventually leaving the game and not returning. Initial fears suggested a potentially serious injury, but MRI results revealed a knee hyperextension rather than structural damage. NBA insider Shams Charania later reported that Jokić also sustained a bone bruise. The Nuggets announced that he would be re-evaluated after four weeks, a timeline that provided cautious optimism for both the team and its fans. Head coach David Adelman expressed relief following the MRI results, noting that while the moment was alarming, the injury was not season-ending. Adelman emphasized Jokić’s toughness and resilience, highlighting the emotional weight of seeing such a durable player sidelined. As the projected four-week recovery window nears its end, uncertainty remains regarding Jokić’s return. Adelman described the rehabilitation process as inconsistent, explaining that Jokić has experienced both progress and setbacks. Although the Serbian center has not returned to game action, he has remained active with the team—participating in practices, mentoring younger players, and offering guidance from the bench during games.

If the original timetable holds, Jokić could be medically re-evaluated around January 30. A return shortly thereafter, potentially with a minutes restriction, remains possible. One realistic target date is Denver’s home game against the Los Angeles Clippers on January 31. However, the Nuggets appear willing to extend his recovery to avoid long-term complications. Despite Jokić’s absence, Denver has managed to stay competitive, posting a 7–5 record since his injury and maintaining third place in the Western Conference. The team has also dealt with additional setbacks, including a calf strain to backup center Jonas Valančiūnas. In response, Adelman has leaned on younger players such as DaRon Holmes II and Zeke Nnaji to fill frontcourt roles. Holmes has credited Jokić for continuing to contribute off the court, particularly by offering advice on positioning, screening, and decision-making. Those details, Holmes noted, have made a meaningful impact on his development and the team’s success.

With Valančiūnas nearing a return and Jokić progressing cautiously, the Nuggets remain focused on long-term health rather than rushing their franchise player back into action. While the wait continues, Denver has shown resilience—and Jokić’s influence remains evident even while sidelined.