After missing 16 games this season due to a hyperextended left knee, Nikola Jokić returned to the Nuggets lineup this past Friday and led them to an impressive, 122-109, home victory against the Clippers. Jokić's return energized Denver. Now, though, the Nuggets might be a little less jacked up in Jokic's second game back even though they are playing the defending champion Thunder. Jokić is on a minutes restriction as he builds up his stamina. The Nuggets still remain without at least two starters. Cameron Johnson and Aaron Gordon are out. Christian Braun is doubtful. The Thunder should be fully focused following a 123-111 road loss to the Timberwolves this past Thursday as 5.5-point favorites. Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ranks right near Jokić as the best player in the NBA. Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 32 points a game, second-best in the league. Take the Thunder.
