What happened to Nikola Jokic? Latest on Denver Nuggets superstar's absence vs. Houston Rockets

Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic was a last-minute scratch for the team’s game against the Houston Rockets on Wednesday. Jokic was ruled out after injuring his elbow during pregame warmups.

"Nikola Jokic hurt his elbow while warming up tonight. He has been ruled out due to right elbow inflammation," Denver reporter Bennett Durando tweeted. "Nuggets will host the Rockets without Jokic and Aaron Gordon."

Jokic appeared in high spirits as he walked out to warm up for the game, even sharing a heartfelt moment with former teammate Jeff Green. However, during his warmup routine, the Serbian superstar suffered a blow to his elbow, which ultimately ruled him out of action.

This marks the sixth game Jokic has missed this season. The three-time league MVP recently sat out two consecutive games due to a non-COVID illness. Earlier in the season, the Serbian superstar flew back home and missed three consecutive games due to personal reasons.

The severity of Jokic’s latest injury remains unclear. With the Denver Nuggets set to face the Miami Heat on Friday, all eyes will be on the star center’s recovery and whether he will be ready to return or be forced to miss additional time.

Nikola Jokic in 2024-25 NBA season

Nikola Jokic is once again making a compelling case for MVP honors. The 6-foot-11 center is delivering another extraordinary statistical season, showcasing his dominance and captivating basketball fans worldwide.

Jokic ranks third in the league in scoring, third in rebounds and second in assists, falling just 0.3 assists shy of averaging a triple-double for the season.

The Nuggets’ superstar is putting up impressive numbers, averaging 30.6 points per game on 55.5% shooting from the field, including an exceptional 47.1% from beyond the arc. Additionally, he’s contributing 9.7 rpg, 13.2 apg and 1.8 spg, cementing his status as one of the league’s most versatile and impactful players.