Nikola Jokic avoids the worst! He will be reevaluated in 4 weeks

The NBA was in for a big scare during the early hours of Monday. Nikola Jokic, star of the Denver Nuggets and a three-time MVP of the league, sustained an injury in the game against the Miami Heat following a very concerning gesture to his knee. The images, with the Serbian center on the floor holding his joint, made fears rise.

Initially, many fans thought of a possible anterior cruciate ligament tear, an injury that would have ended his season. However, as hours passed, reassuring news arrived, at least to some extent.

As reported by Shams Charania of ESPN, Jokic did not tear his anterior cruciate ligament. The diagnosis points to a hyperextension of the left knee, a serious injury but far from the initial worst-case scenarios.

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At least four weeks out

The prognosis indicates that the Nuggets' center will be sidelined “at least four weeks.” A significant period of absence, though clearly preferable to a long-term injury. Denver’s medical staff will reassess his condition once that timeframe has elapsed.

This is also Jokic’s most significant injury in his NBA career. Since 2017, the Serbian had never missed more than five consecutive games, highlighting his extraordinary durability to date.

Although a return is expected, the absence will have collateral effects. This extended absence makes it very likely that Jokic will be out of the MVP race and also off the All-NBA teams, two accolades he was firmly positioned for before the Monday incident.