Nikola Jokic Wrist Injury Puts MVP Bid At Risk

Merlin sees Nikola Jokić still playing at an MVP level, but a right-wrist injury now threatens both his award bid and Denver’s standing. ESPN’s Marc J. Spears reported, "Since the Clippers game on Feb. 19, he's really been hampered by a right wrist, shooting-hand injury," adding "Certainly not quite himself. But if he misses a couple more games, he's not going to be available for awards." League rules require 65 games; Jokić has missed 16 of 58, leaving a one-game cushion. Still, the numbers remain majestic. Jokić posted a 35-20-12 triple-double and a 32-9-7 effort in recent games, though turnovers have crept up to 4.33 in three post-All-Star contests. Denver is 36-22 and tightly packed in the West, so one stretch without him could flip home court into a play-in fight. Merlin senses he will fight through pain, but the Nuggets may face a crucial roster decision.