Is Nikola Jokic playing tonight against Suns? Latest injury update on Nuggets star ahead of matchup

Nikola Jokic did not play in the Denver Nuggets' matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans on Thursday, but is expected to be back in the lineup on Friday. The two-time MVP is probable for their matchup against Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns.

Nikola Jokic was out of action against the Pelicans due to a calf injury. Denver was unable to get the job done without its star big man, losing by 19 (107-88).

Thursday was a rare occasion for Jokic as he is a nightly fixture in the Nuggets lineup. In the load management era of the NBA, the All-Star center prides himself on being a workhorse.

Jokic has only missed nine games this season. In the 67 games he's appeared in, he's averaged 24.9 points, 11.9 rebounds and 9.9 assists per game.

Denver (51-25) will need Jokic back in the lineup on Friday as the Nuggets are squaring off against another Western Conference contender. Now that Kevin Durant has returned from injury, the Phoenix Suns (41-35) have one of the top NBA lineups.

The Nuggets have held the top spot in the standings for the majority of the year, but have only a slight margin for error in these final games. Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies (48-28) are three games behind in second place.

The Phoenix Suns will be a good test for Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets

Since the Phoenix Suns are back at full strength, Friday will be a good test for Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets. With the postseason around the corner, it could be a good measuring stick game for them.

After being at the top of the West for most of the regular season, Denver has high playoff aspirations. They've been riddled with injuries for years, but are now ready to make a deep run.

One of the teams in Denver's path is the Phoenix Suns. They went all in when they traded for Kevin Durant, and their title window is small. Facing off this close to the playoffs could be beneficial if they are to meet later down the road.

If the Nuggets are going to make the finals, they'll need Jokic to be able to go toe-to-toe with multiple superstars. Outplaying Kevin Durant in a premier matchup will be a clear indicator of whether they'll truly be able to contend this postseason.