Nuggets' Jokić Out 4+ Weeks with Hyperextended Knee; MVP Race Shifts

Nuggets star Nikola Jokić is sidelined 4+ weeks with a hyperextended left knee, sustained Monday vs. Miami. Tests confirmed intact ligaments, avoiding severe injury. He posted 21 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds before exiting. Jokić will be re-evaluated in four weeks, with an early February return anticipated. His absence creates a significant void for the 22-10 Nuggets, already missing key players. Valančiūnas is expected to start at center; Murray and Watson will see increased offensive roles. Jokić's MVP eligibility is now a long shot, impacting the MVP race and Denver's playoff positioning.