The Denver Nuggets are currently navigating a challenging stretch in their 2024-25 NBA season, holding a 44-27 record, which positions them No. 3 in the Western Conference standings.
In their most recent outing, the Nuggets faced the Portland Trail Blazers and suffered a 128-109 defeat.
This loss marked their second consecutive defeat, highlighting the team's struggles in the absence of key players.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets are set to face the Houston Rockets this Sunday.
The Rockets, boasting a 46-25 record, currently sit in the No. 2 place in the Western Conference, making this matchup significant for playoff seeding.
Nuggets share a key update about Jokic
However, Denver will be without their star center, Nikola Jokic, who the club announced has been ruled out due to a left ankle impingement.
This will be Jokic's fourth consecutive missed game, raising concerns about his availability for upcoming contests. This could also mean the team is giving his star player a rest given that the team will more than likely be in the playoffs.
Injury Report ahead of tomorrow's game against the Rockets:
PROBABLE:
Aaron Gordon (Right Calf Injury Management/Left Ankle Sprain)
Jamal Murray (Right Ankle Sprain)
Christian Braun (Left Foot Strain)
OUT:
Nikola Jokić (Left Ankle Impingement)
Julian Strawther (Left Knee… pic.twitter.com/1AuiZynlsI
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) March 22, 2025
The official injury report for the game against the Rockets also lists Aaron Gordon (right calf injury management/left ankle sprain), Jamal Murray (right ankle sprain), and Christian Braun (left foot strain) as probable.
Additionally, the team has declared Julian Strawther (left knee sprain) and DaRon Holmes II (right Achilles tendon repair) out.
Jokic's absence is particularly impactful, given his pivotal role in the team's success, the Nuggets will need other players to step up in his stead.
Houston has been performing at a high level this season, and Denver's depleted roster will need to deliver an exceptional performance to secure a victory.
As the season approaches its climax, the Nuggets must navigate these injury setbacks carefully. Ensuring the health and readiness of key players like Jokic will be crucial for their aspirations in the postseason.
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This story was originally published March 23, 2025 at 10:46 AM.