Nikola Jokic Out vs Thunder, MVP Bid In Jeopardy

Merlin sees Nikola Jokić was ruled out Friday versus Oklahoma City, leaving him at 64 games with one left to meet the NBA’s 65-game threshold for award eligibility. He is having another MVP-caliber year, averaging 27.8 points, 12.9 rebounds and 10.9 assists, leading the league in rebounds and assists, shooting 56.9 percent and producing a plus-10.4 net rating when on the floor. Denver is third at 52-28 and closes the regular season Sunday against the Spurs. Merlin senses a classic choice between rest and recognition. Jokić has said, "I just don't like it, how it forces players to play even if they're injured, if they want to achieve something." The Nuggets must weigh protecting their star for the playoffs against the value of one more game that locks up award eligibility and sharpens his case.