NBA
Timberwolves vs Nuggets game 2 injury report: Will Jokic play?
As the Nuggets prepare for Game 2 of their opening round series against the Timberwolves, they are faced with the prospect of doing so without their star.
With a 1-0 lead, Denver heads into this one deservedly confident. On the other hand, the uncertainty surrounding their biggest star threatens to put a damper on the mood. Whatever the case, the team will need to give no quarter if they hope to avoid a resurgence from Minnesota.
Nikola Jokic listed as ‘questionable’
According to reports, Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic has been listed as ‘questionable’ ahead of the team’s 2nd game in the opening round best of seven series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. It is understood that Jokic is suffering with right wrist pain, however, he did in fact participate in the day’s practice and more importantly didn’t show any visible signs of discomfort. It goes without saying, that the Nuggets’ playoff hopes depend heavily on the Serbian meaning unless there’s a severe issue, we can expect to see him play.
During their Game 1 victory, Jokic put 13 points on the board to go with 14 rebounds and six assists while shooting 6-12 from the field and it wasn’t just the big man either. There were six Denver players who scored in double figures, not the least of whom was Jamal Murry with 24 points on the night. Yet, it would be a stretch to say that the Nuggets are as good a team when Jokic isn’t on the court. That’s to say, they need him.
To be clear, it’s been another unreal year for Jokic and once in which he’s loudly being touted - again - as the MVP of the season. If the Nuggets are to get anything out of their postseason trip it will undoubtedly come down to his involvement.
What’s the injury situation?
Luckily for the Nuggets- depending on how you look at it - Jokic is the only player on the injury report. Where the Timberwolves are concerned, Rudy Gobert is out with back spasms - that’s a big loss - while Jaylen Nowell is out with left knee tendinopathy. There’s also Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid, both of whom were ruled out even before Game 1. At this point it’s officially up in the air as to whether Jokic will play, but as mentioned before: the Nuggets aren’t going anywhere without him AND his wrist doesn’t seem to be too bad. With that in mind, expect to see the ‘Joker’ on court.