“This is gonna be bad.” When Nikola Jokic threw a last-second heave during Saturday’s Clippers clash, hoping to win it for the Nuggets, he immediately knew his shot was way off. Fortunately, Aaron Gordon’s awareness and a little bit of luck turned tragedy into opportunity. The high-flyer dunked the air ball right before the buzzer blared, tying the series at 2-2.

Thanks to AG’s miraculous game-winner, this has become the most exciting first-round series of these playoffs. All others are either over with a sweep or completely lopsided at 3-1. After two thrilling games in LA, the series is back in Denver for tonight’s highly anticipated Game 5. But will the Nuggets have to face this challenge without their two biggest superstars? Let’s dive in.

Is Nikola Jokic Playing Tonight?

The answer is YES. Denver fans have nothing to worry about as Jokic is not listed on the latest injury report. In fact, he has stayed healthy for the majority of the season. He played 70 games during the regular season, averaging a 29.7-point triple-double, becoming the first Center in NBA history to achieve that feat.

Sure enough, Joker’s dominance has continued in the playoffs, as he has already tallied two triple-doubles in the first-round series. Even in Saturday’s game, the big man dropped 36 points and grabbed a whopping 21 rebounds. So, his availability is extremely pivotal for the Nuggets to win this series, and it’s great news that he is not on the injury report for tonight’s clash. Same goes for his partner.

Is Jamal Murray Playing Tonight?

Just like Jokic, Murray is also expected to suit up tonight. He, too, is not listed on the injury report. Sure, the point guard missed a few games during the regular season, dealing with lingering injuries. But he has been fairly healthy recently, playing all four playoff games. Tonight is unlikely to be any different.

Of course, Jamal is the team’s primary ball handler and has been great in this series. In the first four games, he has averaged 20 points and six assists. Surely, the Nuggets will need his versatility tonight, especially with multiple key stars likely to miss the game.

Two key players’ health raises concern for Nuggets ahead of Game 5

While Jokic and Murray are unlikely to sit out tonight’s game, the same cannot be said for two key stars. According to the injury report, Russell Westbrook could miss his second straight game as his status remains questionable. Reason? Left foot inflammation caused him to leave Game 3 after just nine minutes. However, Westbrook was dominant in the first two games, averaging 14.5 points. So, the Nuggets could struggle without him.

Moreover, Michael Porter Jr. is also highlighting the IR as he is probable with a left shoulder sprain. But the probable status hints that he is more likely to suit up than Russ. Of course, DaRon Holmes II will continue to sit out, dealing with the right Achilles tendon repair.

Well, winning tonight’s game is extremely crucial for the Nuggets because a loss at home will put them at serious risk of elimination. So, Russ and MPJ’s final status could prove pivotal in the outcome. Do you think Jokic and Murray can protect home court and take a 3-2 lead over the Clippers?