The Denver Nuggets will face a significant challenge in their upcoming home game, as they will be without their superstar center and offensive engine, Nikola Jokic. The reigning MVP has been ruled out for the contest against the Atlanta Hawks at Ball Arena on January 9, 2026, due to a left knee hyperextension and is expected to be sidelined for at least four weeks.
Details of Nikola Jokic's Knee Injury
The injury occurred just before the new year, with Jokic hyperextending his left knee. Following a thorough medical evaluation, the Nuggets' medical staff and management decided that a period of rest and recovery was the best course of action, opting to avoid any risk of aggravating the issue. This absence strips the Nuggets of not just their primary scorer but also their most crucial playmaker and decision-maker on the floor. A vast portion of Denver's offensive sets are predicated on Jokic's unique ability to read defenses and create high-percentage scoring opportunities for his teammates.
How Will The Denver Nuggets Adjust Without Jokic?
With the Serbian big man out, the offensive burden will shift dramatically to point guard Jamal Murray. Murray is expected to handle the ball more frequently and will be tasked with creating shots for himself and others, especially in late-clock situations. The team will also need increased contributions from its supporting cast and younger players to fill the massive void.
One player poised for a larger role is forward Peyton Watson. His minutes are set to increase, leading to more scoring opportunities. This projected uptick in his offensive output has already influenced betting markets, where his points line has been notably set above 16.5 for the upcoming games. Strategically, Denver might attempt to play at a faster pace and rely more on perimeter shooting in Jokic's absence, though this shift could potentially leave them more vulnerable on the defensive end.
A Battle of Depleted Rosters at Ball Arena
The game, scheduled for a 9:00 p.m. ET tip-off, loses much of its star power with Jokic's absence. His nightly contributions of scoring, rebounding, and elite passing fundamentally shape how opponents game-plan against Denver. Without him, the Nuggets must find offensive production in less conventional and more unpredictable ways.
Interestingly, the visiting Atlanta Hawks find themselves in a parallel situation. They are navigating a period of adjustment after significant roster changes, including moving on from former cornerstone Trae Young, and are also dealing with other injuries. This means both teams will be without their primary offensive organizers, setting the stage for a contest that may lack polish but will heavily test each team's depth and adaptability.
The Hawks may look to exploit Denver's interior, particularly with backup center Jonas Valanciunas also unavailable. This could make Jalen Johnson a pivotal figure in the frontcourt battle, while guards like Nickeil Alexander-Walker will be relied upon for outside scoring. Oddsmakers have swiftly adjusted the betting lines to account for Jokic's absence, narrowing the point spread to reflect the increased uncertainty. Ultimately, this matchup is likely to be decided by effort, execution, and which team's role players step up to meet the moment.
