Nuggets MVP Nikola Jokic Ruled Out For Celtics Clash Due To Illness
A Loss for the Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets will be without their star center Nikola Jokic for their upcoming game against the Boston Celtics on Friday night due to illness. The news was first reported by Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.
Jokic is averaging 24.7 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game this season and is one of the leading candidates for the NBA MVP award. He has been a key part of the Nuggets' success this season as they have climbed to the top of the Western Conference standings.
In Jokic's absence, the Nuggets will likely start DeAndre Jordan at center. Jordan is a veteran big man who has been a solid contributor for the Nuggets this season, but he is not the same type of player as Jokic. He is not as skilled offensively and is not as good of a passer.
A Challenging Matchup for the Celtics
The Celtics are one of the best teams in the NBA this season and will be a tough matchup for the Nuggets even without Jokic. The Celtics have a deep and talented roster and are led by MVP candidate Jayson Tatum. They are also one of the best defensive teams in the league.
The Nuggets will need to play their best game if they want to win without Jokic. They will need to be able to score consistently and defend well. They will also need to get a big game from Jamal Murray, who has been the Nuggets' second-best player this season.
Implications for the MVP Race
Jokic's absence could have a significant impact on the MVP race. If he is out for an extended period of time, it could open the door for other players to make a strong case for the award.
One player who could benefit from Jokic's absence is Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers. Embiid is another MVP candidate who is having a great season. He is averaging 33.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game.
Another player who could benefit from Jokic's absence is Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. Antetokounmpo is the reigning MVP and is having another great season. He is averaging 31.8 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game.
Conclusion
The Nuggets will be without their star center Nikola Jokic for their upcoming game against the Boston Celtics on Friday night due to illness. This is a big loss for the Nuggets as Jokic is one of the best players in the NBA. The Celtics are one of the best teams in the NBA and will be a tough matchup for the Nuggets even without Jokic. The Nuggets will need to play their best game if they want to win without Jokic. Jokic's absence could also have a significant impact on the MVP race.
