The Denver Nuggets will face a monumental challenge when they visit the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday, January 5, 2026. The reigning MVP, Nikola Jokic, has been officially ruled out as he continues his recovery from a significant left knee injury, leaving an already depleted roster dangerously thin.
Jokic's Injury Timeline and Impact
The Serbian center suffered the injury on December 29 against the Miami Heat. The incident occurred when teammate Spencer Jones accidentally stepped on his foot during a play. Medical tests later confirmed a diagnosis of a hyperextension with a bone bruise. Fortunately, there was no major structural damage to the knee.
However, the team's medical staff has been cautious, ruling Jokic out for a minimum of four weeks. This timeline points to a potential return in late January or early February 2026. His absence leaves a colossal void. Before the injury, Jokic was putting up historic numbers, averaging 29.6 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 11.0 assists per game while shooting an incredible 60.5% from the field.
Denver Nuggets' Extensive Injury Report
The situation for Denver is far more dire than just missing their best player. The team's injury list reads like a roster sheet, wiping out most of their rotation. For the clash in Philadelphia, the Nuggets will be without their entire starting lineup and several key reserves.
The confirmed players out for the January 5 game include:
- Nikola Jokic (C): Left knee bone bruise
- Jamal Murray (PG): Left ankle sprain
- Aaron Gordon (PF): Right hamstring strain
- Cameron Johnson (PF): Right knee bone bruise
- Christian Braun (SG): Left ankle sprain
- Jonas Valanciunas (C): Right calf strain
- Tim Hardaway Jr. (SG): Illness management
This will mark the fourth consecutive game Jokic has missed. Unsurprisingly, the team has struggled immensely in his absence, losing four of their last five contests. They have faced consistent problems with scoring efficiency and interior defence, areas where Jokic's presence is irreplaceable.
Philadelphia 76ers' Advantage and Outlook
In stark contrast, the Philadelphia 76ers enter this matchup with significant momentum and a much healthier squad. They are currently riding a three-game winning streak. While they have a few players on their injury report, the status of their superstar is promising.
Centre Joel Embiid is listed as probable for the game, dealing with routine knee and ankle management. The only confirmed absences for the 76ers are Kelly Oubre Jr. (left knee sprain), Trendon Watford (left adductor strain), and Johni Broome (G League assignment).
This sets the stage for a highly lopsided affair. With Jokic unavailable, Denver lacks its primary scorer, playmaker, and defensive anchor. Philadelphia, led by a likely Embiid alongside stars like Tyrese Maxey and Paul George, holds a clear and overwhelming advantage, particularly in the paint. Barring an extraordinary performance from Denver's remaining role players and bench, the 76ers are heavy favourites to secure a victory on their home court.
The game underscores a brutal stretch in Denver's schedule, where injuries have transformed a potentially competitive national spotlight matchup into a daunting road assignment for a severely short-handed team.
