On Monday, during the game between the Denver Nuggets and the Miami Heat, Nikola Jokic injured his knee after colliding with a teammate.
The three-time MVP immediately grimaced in pain on the floor, raising fears of a serious injury.
The initial tests were highly anticipated, but the outcome is ultimately less severe than expected: the three-time MVP will be out for at least four weeks.
After a month on the sidelines, the Serbian star will be re-evaluated to determine when he can return to action.
It’s a relief for Denver, a team that has been hit hard by injuries this season. Only Jamal Murray remains active from the original starting five, with Cam Johnson, Christian Braun, and Aaron Gordon all sidelined.
As for Jokic, it could have been worse, but he’s still expected to miss around fifteen games. That could put him below the 65-game threshold required to be eligible for end-of-season awards.
While he was the clear favourite for MVP thanks to his outstanding season, he may now have to give up on a fourth trophy.