Jokic returns to Nuggets in New Orleans after 2-game absence

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Nikola Jokic was again in Denver’s beginning lineup Tuesday evening in opposition to New Orleans after lacking the Nuggets’ earlier two video games due to tightness in his left hamstring.

The 7-foot middle from Serbia is a two-time NBA MVP. He is averaging 25.1 factors, 11 rebounds and 9.9 assists this season.

His return comes in opposition to a Pelicans squad lacking two if its prime offensive gamers in Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.

Pelicans coach Willie Inexperienced mentioned earlier than tipoff that if Jokic returned, it could complicate his sport plan.

“He’s an awesome participant for a purpose, as a result of he makes it very troublesome on teaching staffs to determine him out. He makes it troublesome on groups and gamers,” Inexperienced mentioned. “Guys that contact the ball that a lot, they’re going to have an effect on the sport in some unspecified time in the future.”

The Nuggets entered the evening main the Western Convention with a 33-14 report. They’ve gone 3-3 within the six video games Jokic has missed, together with a loss of their earlier sport in opposition to Oklahoma Metropolis on Sunday that snapped a nine-game profitable streak.

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