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Nuggets Rule Nikola Jokic Out for January After MRI Confirms Left-Knee Hyperextension

Tests showed intact ligaments, signaling a weeks-long absence rather than a season-ending setback.

Overview

  • Denver said Jokic will miss at least the month of January and be re-evaluated in roughly four weeks after Tuesday’s imaging.
  • Insiders reported a bone bruise with the hyperextension and no ligament damage, with some outlets projecting a recovery range of four to eight weeks.
  • Jokic was hurt when teammate Spencer Jones inadvertently stepped on his left foot, causing the knee to buckle late in the first half at Miami.
  • Denver is already short-handed, with starters Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun and Cameron Johnson also sidelined, prompting rotation adjustments.
  • The three-time MVP is averaging about 29.6 points, 12.2 rebounds and 11.0 assists, and the time missed could affect awards eligibility under the NBA’s 65-game rule.