Tonight by 8 p.m. EDT at the Target Center, an iconic clash is set to take place between the Denver Nuggets and the Minnesota Timberwolves. So, what does that mean? The hopes for the hooping enthusiasts will be high to see Nikola Jokić, Russell Westbrook, Anthony Edwards, and Julius Randle in action, all in one arena. Isn’t it interesting?

Currently, the Nuggets are still searching for their first win at 0-4, while the Timberwolves, sitting at 2-2, are hoping to shake off a two-game losing streak. This preseason game is important as both teams prepare for the regular season ahead. But the big question on everyone’s mind is whether Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray will be in action.

Both stars set to shine or sit out?

As per the injury report from October 16, 2024, both Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray are listed as day-to-day. Oh, there’s much to worry about, right? But Harrison Wind, who has been covering Nuggets since the Jokic era, is here with positive news. He tweeted, “Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and the Nuggets’ starters traveled to Minnesota today. I’d think they play (I’d guess a half) tomorrow.” This suggests that both stars might be seen on the court, but still with a doubt.

However, Murray’s recent knee issues have raised alarms. According to a tweet from October 15, before the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, head coach Michael Malone mentioned that Murray’s knee started feeling “funny.” “Michael Malone said today Jamal Murray’s knee started feeling “funny” before last night’s game. They figured it was something that would dissipate during the game, but they decided to hold him out of the second half. Murray had big ice bags wrapped around his knees today,” read the tweet from Vinny Benedetto, the Nuggets beat writer for Denver Gazette.

Moving on, Peyton Watson is also on day-to-day in the injury report and is yet to make his preseason debut as he is suffering from a soft-tissue hamstring injury. Additionally, Russell Westbrook also finds himself on the injury report, and his status reads day to day.

How will the Nuggets adapt without their key playmaker if Murray is sidelined? And what about Jokic, the reigning MVP? His presence on the court is vital for Denver’s chances this season. However, have they played in other pre-season games? Let’s find out.

A look back at Jokic and Murray on the court

Jokic and Murray are back on the court. On October 16, which was the most recent game of the Nuggets against the Oklahoma City Thunder, their loss was a blowout against the OKC, where they fell 124-94. Notably, Jokic and Murray were both rested for that game. However, in the games they did play, both showcased their talent despite the losses.

Against the Celtics

In the opener against the Celtics on October 4, Murray scored just 3 points, as he struggled with rhythm. However, by the second game, his performance improved a bit, as he scored 11 points, but he still faced challenges with his shooting efficiency.

Meanwhile, Jokic, on October 4, against the Celtics, notched 14 points and exhibited an impressive level of shooting accuracy. On October 6, he maintained his shine by scoring 20 points and securing 7 rebounds, solidifying his position as a crucial player for the Nuggets.

Against the Phoenix Suns

Murry, in the game against the Suns, managed only 2 points before sitting out the second half due to knee issues. His fluctuating contributions raised questions about his readiness for the regular season.

Jokic displayed his dominance in the paint, scoring 21 points and grabbing 14 rebounds in the preseason game against the Suns on October 13. As the regular season approaches, his consistent performance is a positive sign for the Nuggets.

With the status of Jokic and Murray still day-to-day, the preseason finale becomes even more intriguing for both teams. The Nuggets are in dire need of a victory, while the Timberwolves aim to recover their momentum. The result could establish the mood for the upcoming regular season! What is the level of importance for both teams in this game? Will they be able to make the adjustments necessary to find success? Only time will tell.