Denver Nuggets Nikola Jokic vs the Memphis Grizzlies (Image via Getty) Nikola Jokic is likely to play when the Denver Nuggets face the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday at Ball Arena. The center is listed as probable on the injury report with a left ankle sprain, which usually means a player is expected to be available unless something changes close to tipoff.Denver has also indicated that Jokic is on track to suit up, and betting markets reflect the same expectation. With several Nuggets dealing with injuries, his availability carries added importance heading into this matchup.
Latest injury report for both teams
The NBA’s injury report from February 9 lists Nikola Jokic as probable because of the ankle issue. Denver’s February 8 report mirrors that update. Christian Braun is also probable with a left ankle sprain, while Jamal Murray is questionable due to left hip inflammation.Cleveland is short on frontcourt depth. Evan Mobley is out with a left calf strain, and Max Strus remains sidelined after left foot surgery. Jaylon Tyson and Dean Wade are both questionable with left ankle sprains.Given the absences on both sides, Denver is expected to rely heavily on Jokic to organize the offense.
Nikola Jokic’s Recent form while dealing with injuries
Nikola Jokic returned in late December 2025 after missing time with a left knee bone bruise and has played regularly since then. In a recent stretch that included more than 30 minutes in three straight games, he averaged about 28 to 29 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 to 11 assists. He shot close to 59 percent from the field and over 40 percent from three-point range during that span.The ankle sprain appeared more recently and created some uncertainty before a game against Chicago. He was still considered day-to-day and expected to play. His current probable status suggests the team believes he can handle his normal role, though a slight reduction in minutes remains possible.
What this game means for Denver Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets are trying to maintain their place in a competitive Western Conference, making Jokic’s presence important against a strong Cavaliers team finishing a road trip.Denver is already without Aaron Gordon, Peyton Watson, and Spencer Jones. That leaves Jokic with a larger share of the scoring and playmaking duties. Despite his expected availability, the Nuggets enter the game as slight home underdogs, showing how much the team depends on him when the roster is thin.If he plays, Denver will likely run its offense through him at the high post and in pick-and-roll situations to challenge Cleveland’s size and perimeter defense.
Key things to monitor in tonight’s Nuggets vs Cavaliers game
• Minutes: Denver could manage his workload because of the ankle, but the stakes of the game may require extended playing time. • Partnership with Murray: If Murray is cleared, their pick-and-roll remains central to Denver’s half-court offense. • Defensive pressure: Cleveland may send extra defenders, which often allows Jokic to create open shots for teammates such as Braun.Fantasy players and bettors should still check for a final update before the game, but the probable tag points toward him being available.Also read: Cleveland Cavaliers vs Denver Nuggets injury report: Who’s playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (February 9, 2026)Nikola Jokic is expected to play against the Cleveland Cavaliers and is officially listed as probable with a left ankle sprain. Unless there is a late change, Denver should have its primary playmaker on the court in a game that could affect positioning in the standings. A performance near his usual triple-double numbers is a reasonable expectation if he starts.