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Denver Nuggets begin 2026 facing a growing injury crisis, with Nikola Jokic remaining unavailable ahead of their matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
As Denver prepares for its first game of the new year, questions surrounding the reigning MVP’s status have been firmly answered—Jokic will not feature, leaving Nuggets severely shorthanded once again.
Denver’s injury situation has escalated rapidly over the past few weeks, disrupting continuity and forcing major rotation adjustments.
Jokic is sidelined indefinitely due to a knee injury, joining an already lengthy list of unavailable starters. His absence continues to reshape Nuggets’ identity, both offensively and defensively, as the team navigates one of its most challenging stretches in recent seasons.
Nikola Jokic injury update
Jokic remains out as he continues to recover from a knee injury. Nuggets have offered no clear timeline for his return, signaling a cautious approach with the franchise cornerstone.
Jokic’s absence has stripped Denver of its primary offensive hub, playmaking engine, and interior anchor, forcing the coaching staff to rely heavily on depth and improvisation.
With Nikola Jokic unavailable to open 2026, Denver will once again attempt to compensate through collective scoring and increased ball movement, rather than its usual offense built around Jokic’s decision-making.
Denver Nuggets’ injury list continues to grow
Jokic is not alone on the sidelines. Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun remain out after missing multiple weeks due to hamstring and ankle injuries, respectively.
Cam Johnson is also sidelined with a knee injury, meaning four of Denver’s five regular starters are unavailable heading into the Cavaliers game.
The situation worsened further when Jonas Valanciunas, who had stepped in to fill Nikola Jokic’s role, suffered a calf strain in his first start of the season.
Valanciunas is now expected to miss at least a month, removing another interior option from Denver Nuggets’ rotation.
That leaves Jamal Murray as the lone remaining starter, though even his status briefly raised concern. Murray appeared on the injury report with a left ankle sprain but is listed as probable for Friday’s game. His availability is critical, as losing him would leave Denver without its entire starting five.
Depth players stepping up for Denver
Despite the mounting injuries, Denver Nuggets have continued to compete by leaning on their offseason additions and young contributors.
Veterans Tim Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown have played pivotal roles off the bench, providing scoring stability and experience during this depleted stretch.
Meanwhile, Peyton Watson has emerged as a reliable contributor, taking on expanded responsibilities and delivering efficient scoring performances in recent games. His increased role has helped soften the blow of Denver’s missing starters.
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