The Denver Nuggets have endured one of the biggest storylines in the NBA this season: the extended absence of three‑time MVP Nikola Jokić due to a knee injury. As the team adapts without its centerpiece, recent updates have brought both challenges and optimism for Denver and the league as a whole
Jokić suffered a hyperextended left knee on December 29, 2025 in a game against the Miami Heat, forcing him out of action immediately. The initial diagnosis was a significant scare, but thankfully no major structural damage was found — meaning surgery isn’t expected.
The Nuggets subsequently confirmed he’d miss at least four weeks and be reevaluated after that period, roughly placing his possible return in late January or early February.
Recent Progress & Return Timeline
Recent reports indicate real progress in Jokic’s rehab:
- Shams Charania (ESPN) says Jokic has resumed on‑court work and is right on schedule — maybe even slightly ahead — for a late‑January return.
- NBA Insider Marc Stein suggests that early February looks increasingly likely as the realistic return window for both Jokic and teammate Cam Johnson, also dealing with a knee issue.
- These timelines could mean Jokić misses about 15–19 games, which could affect award eligibility (such as MVP or All‑NBA teams) if he doesn’t hit the 65‑game minimum.
While the exact date is still tentative and assessments could shift as Jokic gets closer to full health, the overall trend is positive. As Denver is taking a cautious, health‑first approach.
Nuggets’ Play Without Jokic
Even without their star center, the Nuggets haven’t collapsed — and frankly have played better than expected in a stacked Western Conference, it’s been a common that Denver’s plays significantly worse when Jokic isn’t on the floor. But, this trend is changing.
- Denver has gone 5–3 without Jokic, including key road wins in Toronto, Philadelphia, and Boston.
- Peyton Watson has stepped up in a big way, averaging impressive scoring and all‑around contributions in recent games.
- With Jamal Murry being Robin to Jokic, has been playing at an career level. Averaging a career high of 25 ppg with a 7 assist clip.
One memorable example came shortly after Jokic’s injury — Watson scored 24 points and Jamal Murray added 21 to help Denver hold off the Raptors 106–103 in a clutch win.
While the offense and identity are different without Jokic’s play‑making gravity, Denver’s depth and role players have shown they can still compete night in and night out.
What This Means for The Nuggets Season
Playoff Positioning
The Nuggets are still among the top teams in the West, currently holding the second position. Despite the absence of their MVP and known to be the best player in the world. The Nuggets depth is showing resilience and depth. If they keep this up, even a Jokic‑limited lineup could position Denver for a strong seeding run.
Award Implications
Jokić’s absence has brought scrutiny to the NBA’s 65‑game minimum rule for awards. Although his historic stat lines this season made him a frontrunner for MVP, missing games could complicate his eligibility — a point recently highlighted by Giannis Antetokounmpo in media comments.
Return Watch
All eyes are on late January through early February as the potential range for Jokic’s return. If he can get back around that window, Denver’s second half of the season could look drastically different — and potentially title‑contending once again.
