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HOUSTON (AP) — According to head coach Michael Malone, Nuggets center Nikola Jokic is anticipated to rejoin the Denver roster during the team’s forthcoming five-game homestand.
Jokic missed his fourth consecutive game on Sunday, sitting out the 116-111 victory against Houston due to a left ankle impingement. Malone indicated that Jokic is unlikely to play in Monday’s opener against the Chicago Bulls.
“He’s slated to play during the homestand in Denver,” Malone remarked. “I’m hopeful he’ll make his return at some point over those five games. Obviously, he won’t be participating today (Sunday), and I don’t think he’ll be available tomorrow (Monday). We’re just trying to get home and assess his condition.”
The Nuggets are scheduled to face Milwaukee on Wednesday, Utah on Friday, and Minnesota on April 1, concluding their homestand the next night against the San Antonio Spurs.
A three-time Kia MVP, Jokic is averaging 29.1 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 10.3 assists this season. The Nuggets have recorded a 1-2 record in the last three outings without him.
With only 11 games left in the regular season, Malone expressed his desire to have his starting lineup back together before the playoffs commence.
“It would be beneficial to allow the starting five some time to play together, as we haven’t had many chances to do so this season,” Malone concluded.
