Nikola Jokić is reportedly ‘sick’ about returning from a knee injury
Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman provided a promising update on Nikola Jokić’s recovery from hyperextended knee. According to Adelman, Jokic is very eager to return in court.
“I know he’s nervous; he’s never been hurt,” Adelman said. “We all know what it’s like. For people who have been involved in sports and get hurt, the worst thing is just sitting. And that’s someone who never misses a game.”
Jokić suffered the injury on December 29 against the Miami Heat when teammate Spencer Jones accidentally stepped on his foot, causing an awkward hyperextension of the knee resulting in a bone bruise. The Nuggets announced that he would be re-evaluated four weeks from the date of the injury, and his potential return was in late January.
David Adelman criticizes the 65-game eligibility rule
The timing of Jokic’s injury has raised concerns about his eligibility for postseason awards. NBA rules require players to appear in at least 65 games to be eligible for MVP or All-NBA honors. Jokic could certainly return in time to still be eligible for those awards. However, his head coach continues to question the rules, especially given Jokic’s track record of playing full seasons.
“I had this conversation with my staff. I understand the 65-game rule. But for a guy who never misses a game for a decade, it bothers me a little bit,” Adelman said. “This is not someone who sits down. He never sits down. He is anxious to get back.”
Despite being injured, Jokic was a stoic veteran on the bench. Because the injury occurred early in their two-week trip, Jokic decided to stay and continue traveling with the team. Not only was he seen cheering on his teammates, but he also took on a bit of a coaching role during Nuggets timeouts during games.
2026-01-12 13:08:00
