Report: Nikola Jokić Expected to Return Tonight vs. Clippers
Jan 30, 2026, 12:42 PM | Updated: 12:45 pm
Per ESPN’s Shams Charania, Nikola Jokić is expected to return to the floor tonight against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Jokić has been sidelined since December 29 after suffering a knee injury in Miami. He’s been one of four Nuggets starters to miss time over the past month, along with Aaron Gordon, Cam Johnson, and Christian Braun. The Nuggets announced on Tuesday that Gordon has re-injured his hamstring and is expected to miss another 4–6 weeks.
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. pic.twitter.com/2Y6bncli50
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 30, 2026
Despite the injuries, Denver has managed to weather the storm, going 10–6 during Jokić’s absence. The team will now look to reintegrate the reigning MVP as they push through the second half of the season.
Jokić’s return is also significant for his NBA MVP candidacy, as players must appear in at least 65 games to be eligible for the award.
