Nikola Jokic to Return for Nuggets vs. Clippers

Nuggets star center Nikola Jokic plans to play against the Clippers after missing a month with a knee injury.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 2:07pm

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After missing the last 16 games with a knee injury, Denver Nuggets star center Nikola Jokic is set to return to the court on Friday night against the Los Angeles Clippers. Jokic, who is averaging 29.6 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 11.0 assists per game this season, has been sidelined since suffering a hyperextension of his left knee on December 29th.

Why it matters

Jokic's return is a huge boost for the Nuggets, who went 10-6 in his absence but will be thrilled to have the two-time MVP back on the floor. His presence takes pressure off Jamal Murray and should help the Nuggets as they look to fend off the surging Clippers, who have won 9 of their last 10 games.

The details

Jokic is expected to be on a minutes restriction when he first returns, as the Nuggets look to ease him back in after the extended absence. However, the superstar center is eager to get back on the court and continue his historic season. Jokic's return also keeps him eligible for postseason awards like MVP, which he was in danger of missing out on due to the NBA's 65-game requirement.

  • Jokic suffered the knee injury on December 29th, 2025.
  • Jokic has missed the last 16 consecutive games for the Nuggets.
  • Jokic plans to return and play against the Clippers on Friday, January 30th, 2026.

The players

Nikola Jokic

The two-time MVP and superstar center of the Denver Nuggets, who is averaging 29.6 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 11.0 assists per game this season.

Jamal Murray

The Nuggets' starting point guard, who has had to shoulder more of the offensive load in Jokic's absence.

Kawhi Leonard

The superstar forward for the Los Angeles Clippers, who has been playing some of his best basketball of the season.

James Harden

The veteran guard for the Los Angeles Clippers, who has also been on a tear recently alongside Kawhi Leonard.

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What they’re saying

“Denver's Nikola Jokic – out since Dec. 29 with a knee injury – plans to return tonight against the Los Angeles Clippers at home, sources tell ESPN. Jokic now is in position to also play in Sunday's showdown vs. Oklahoma City in Denver and be eligible for the season awards.”

— Shams Charania, NBA Insider (ESPN)

What’s next

The Nuggets will closely monitor Jokic's minutes and workload in his first game back, but the team is hopeful he can quickly return to his dominant form and help them fend off the surging Clippers. Jokic will also look to remain healthy and eligible for postseason awards like his fourth MVP.

The takeaway

Nikola Jokic's return is a massive boost for the Nuggets as they look to solidify their position in the Western Conference playoff race. His presence takes pressure off Jamal Murray and should help Denver regain its form as one of the top teams in the NBA. Jokic's eligibility for awards like MVP also remains in play, adding even more intrigue to his highly anticipated return.