Is Nikola Jokic playing tonight vs the Oklahoma City Thunder? Latest update on the Denver Nuggets star’s
Nikola Jokic against Oklahoma City Thunder. Image via: David Zalubowski/ AP Nikola Jokic is expected to play when the Denver Nuggets face the Oklahoma City Thunder on March 9, 2026. The three-time MVP is not listed on the team’s injury report, which indicates he is available for the game. His presence is important for Denver, which has been dealing with several injuries across the roster.Jokic has remained the center of the Nuggets’ lineup since returning from injury earlier this year. With other players missing time, the team has relied on him to keep the offense steady as they move through a busy stretch of the schedule.
Nikola Jokic healthy after knee injury earlier this season
Nikola Jokic returned in early February after recovering from a left knee bone bruise and hyperextension he suffered in late December 2025 against the Miami Heat. The injury kept him out for about a month before he rejoined the lineup.In his first game back, Jokic recorded 31 points and 12 rebounds. Since returning, he has continued to produce consistent numbers. Over his last 20 games, he has averaged 21.8 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 7.2 assists. Those totals lead the Nuggets in all major categories.There are no reported limits on his minutes for the Thunder game at Ball Arena. Betting projections currently list his scoring line at 27.5 points.
Denver Nuggets dealing with injuries around its star center
Even though Nikola Jokic is available, Denver Nuggets are still managing injuries elsewhere on the roster.Peyton Watson will miss the game because of a hamstring strain and is expected to remain out until at least March 11. Jamal Murray is listed as questionable with a left ankle sprain he suffered in Friday’s loss to the New York Knicks. Aaron Gordon recently returned after dealing with a hamstring issue and is expected to play.Because of those injuries, Denver may rely more on other players. Tim Hardaway Jr. has averaged 23.2 points over the last 20 games. Christian Braun could also play a larger role in the starting group. If Murray is cleared, he would join Jokic, Gordon, Cameron Johnson, and Braun in the lineup.PlayerStatusInjuryNotes Nikola Jokić Available None Fully cleared, managing minutes Jamal Murray Questionable Ankle Tweaked vs. Knicks Peyton Watson Out Hamstring Through March 11 Aaron Gordon Probable Hamstring (recent) Back in rotation
Oklahoma City Thunder also missing several players
Oklahoma City enters the game with its own injury concerns. Jalen Williams is out with a hamstring injury. Isaiah Hartenstein will miss the game with a calf contusion, and Branden Carlson is out because of a back problem.Chet Holmgren is listed as questionable because of illness. Alex Caruso is also dealing with a hip issue. These injuries reduce the Thunder’s depth in the frontcourt heading into the matchup with Denver.
Game could affect Western Conference standings
The game has importance for both teams in the Western Conference standings. Denver enters with a 39-25 record, while Oklahoma City is near the top of the conference.Also read: Denver Nuggets vs Oklahoma City Thunder injury report: Who’s playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (March 9, 2026)If Oklahoma City remains short in the frontcourt, Denver Nuggets could rely heavily on Jokic inside. His role remains central to the Nuggets’ offense, both as a scorer and a passer. Denver’s current rotation includes Nikola Jokic, Murray, Christian Braun, Cameron Johnson, Aaron Gordon, Tim Hardaway Jr., Brown Jr., and Jonas Valanciunas.
