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Jokic Risks Missing NBA Awards Due to Knee Injury

Published December 31, 2025, 14:22

Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets superstar, suffered a left knee hyperextension during Tuesday's game against the Miami Heat. Initial estimates suggest he will be sidelined for approximately four weeks, meaning he will miss 17 games. According to NBA regulations, players must participate in at least 65 regular-season games to be eligible for individual awards such as MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, Most Improved Player, and All-NBA teams. Jokic has not missed any of his team's first 32 games this season, posting historic numbers with 29.6 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 11.0 assists per game, making him a strong contender for his fourth MVP award. However, a more severe or prolonged injury could completely remove him from contention.