The Denver Nuggets have received a massive boost ahead of their crucial road game against the Atlanta Hawks, with their superstar centre Nikola Jokic officially cleared to play. The three-time MVP, who was managing a minor wrist issue, is listed with no restrictions for the matchup scheduled for Thursday, December 5, at the State Farm Arena.
Injury Report: Jokic Greenlit, Hawks Face Major Setbacks
The NBA's official injury report, released at 12:30 PM ET, confirmed the best possible news for the Nuggets: Nikola Jokic's name was completely absent, signalling a clean bill of health. However, the defending champions will still be without key rotation players. Aaron Gordon (right hamstring strain), Christian Braun (left ankle sprain), and Julian Strawther (lower back) are all ruled out. Rookie Spencer Jones is marked as questionable with a right knee contusion.
The situation for the home team, the Atlanta Hawks, is significantly more dire. Their franchise guard, Trae Young, is sidelined with a right knee MCL sprain. Furthermore, forward Jalen Johnson is listed as questionable due to right calf tightness. This leaves a monumental task for players like Onyeka Okongwu to contain Jokic, who is averaging a staggering 28.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 11.1 assists this season with incredible efficiency.
Jokic's Dominant Form and the Murray Connection
Jokic enters this contest in sublime form, fresh off orchestrating a win against the Indiana Pacers with 24 points and 13 assists. That game also witnessed his partner-in-crime, Jamal Murray, exploding for 52 points. Even with the team navigating injuries, Jokic remains the engine of the NBA's most potent offense, elevating the Nuggets to historic levels.
With the Hawks' frontcourt depleted, Jokic is expected to exploit mismatches relentlessly. Fans can anticipate the full repertoire: no-look passes, dominant rebounding, and the potential for another triple-double masterpiece. The synergy between Jokic and Murray, both fully available, gives Denver a formidable advantage and promises highlight-reel plays throughout the night.
High Stakes for Both Teams in Eastern Conference Showdown
This matchup carries significant weight for both squads. The Denver Nuggets (15-6) are looking to stack another road victory and solidify their position as title contenders. For the Atlanta Hawks (13-10), who are trying to halt a losing skid, the absence of Trae Young creates an enormous challenge to keep pace with Denver's high-octane attack.
The tip-off is set for 7:30 PM ET. With Jokic's MVP-level brilliance on full display and the Hawks battling major injury woes, all signs point to a game where the Nuggets hold a decisive upper hand as they continue their campaign in the 2025 NBA season.
