After going off for a career-high 61-point explosion on Tuesday in a double-overtime loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, Nikola Jokic was unable to suit up on Wednesday against the San Antonio Spurs.
Apart from the fact that it was the second night of a back-to-back set, Jokic was dealing with an ankle issue that ultimately forced him to sit out against the Spurs.
The good news for Nuggets fans, however, is that Jokic is on track to return on Friday in a marquee matchup against the Golden State Warriors.
Denver announced on Thursday via the official injury report that Jokic is probable to play against Steph Curry and Co. He is still nursing a left ankle impingement, but it is looking like he will be available come Friday.
In other injury news, Jamal Murray has been tagged as questionable as he continues to deal with inflammation in his right hamstring. Murray could potentially miss his fourth straight game if he is unable to play on Friday against Golden State.
Aaron Gordon, who also sat out against the Spurs, has been listed as probable to play with a right calf injury. Christian Braun (left foot) is also probable to play, while Michael Porter Jr. (personal) was not on the injury report after two missed games.
Friday’s matchup against the Warriors is a crucial game for both teams. Golden State is in action on Thursday against the Los Angeles Lakers, and they enter that contest just two games behind Denver for the No. 4 seed in the West.
It is also important to note that as of writing, only 2.5 games separate the Nuggets from the eight-seeded Memphis Grizzlies, which means that a playoff spot is not yet guaranteed for Jokic and Co. at this point.