The Denver Nuggets will host the Los Angeles Lakers tonight in a crucial Western Conference matchup, but both teams are dealing with significant injuries. Denver’s latest injury report lists three-time MVP Nikola Jokic as probable with a right elbow contusion and left ankle impingement.
Jamal Murray (left knee inflammation), Zeke Nnaji (left ankle sprain), and Christian Braun (left foot inflammation) are also probable. Aaron Gordon is questionable due to a right calf issue and a left ankle sprain. Meanwhile, Julian Strawther (knee), DaRon Holmes II (Achilles), Trey Alexander, and Spencer Jones will not be available.
The Lakers have yet to release their full injury report, but multiple key players have already been ruled out. LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Jaxson Hayes have returned to California for injury treatment and will miss the game. Luka Doncic, who scored 45 points in a loss to the Bucks, has not confirmed whether he will play.
Denver (42-24) currently sits third in the Western Conference but has struggled recently, going 5-5 in its last ten games. The Lakers (40-24) hold the fourth spot but have dropped three straight after an eight-game winning streak.
This marks the third of four regular-season meetings between the teams. The Nuggets dominated the first matchup 127-102 on November 23, while the Lakers responded with a 123-100 victory on February 22.
With both rosters impacted by injuries, depth and star availability could determine the outcome of this high-stakes battle.
