Will Nikola Jokic play tonight against the Dallas Mavericks? Latest update on the Denver Nuggets star's injury report (January 12, 2025)

Nikola Jokic’s Denver Nuggets are preparing to take on the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday afternoon, aiming for their third straight win. However, the team is facing key injury concerns as star player Jokic appears on the injury report. Meanwhile, the Mavericks will be without Kyrie Irving, leveling the playing field in what promises to be a high-stakes matchup.

Nikola Jokic returned to action against the Brooklyn Nets after missing two games due to illness. His performance was nothing short of stellar, posting 35 points, 15 assists, and 12 rebounds in the team's 123-111 victory. Denver fans can breathe a sigh of relief as Jokic is listed as "probable" for the game against Dallas, indicating that his condition has improved.

Besides Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray’s status is less certain. The guard left the Nets game before halftime with left knee inflammation after scoring just seven points and recording three assists in 16 minutes. Denver Nuggets' head coach Michael Malone addressed Murray’s condition, saying, "It was just acting up. Hopefully this is not anything sinister and we can get him back for Dallas." As of now, Murray is listed as "questionable."

The Denver Nuggets may need to lean more heavily on Russell Westbrook if Murray is unable to play. Westbrook showcased his value in the win over Brooklyn, recording a triple-double with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. Coach Malone highlighted the significance of both Jokic’s and Westbrook’s performances, stating, "Nikola’s first game back he was outstanding, and what Russ did was incredible. Two triple-doubles is crazy, you’re watching history."

Despite the injury concerns, Malone expressed satisfaction with the team's overall effort, particularly their ability to close out the win after the Brooklyn Nets narrowed a 22-point deficit to six in the second half. "The main takeaway is that we won, that’s the most important thing," Malone said. "I thought we got better as the night went along. They cut the lead to six and then we made subs and went on a run."

Also read: Will Kyrie Irving play tonight against the Denver Nuggets? Latest update on the Dallas Mavericks star's injury report (January 12, 2025)

The Denver Nuggets currently hold a 22-15 record, placing them fourth in the Western Conference. With Nikola Jokic likely to play and Westbrook stepping up, Denver has a solid chance to extend their winning streak. The absence of Kyrie Irving for the Mavericks further boosts the Nuggets' odds in this critical matchup.