Nikola Jokic ruled out against Los Angeles Lakers

Nikola Jokic will not play against the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday as he recovers from a left ankle sprain, the Nuggets announced Friday.

Jokic hurt his ankle in the Nuggets’ win over the Chicago Bulls on Thursday. With less than one minute remaining in the first half, Jokic stepped on Jerian Grant‘s foot and came down awkwardly. He stayed in the game to shoot free throws before heading back to the locker room to receive further evaluation.

Jokic did not play in the second half. X-rays came back negative as did an MRI, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported Friday. Jokic is expected to miss “several games,” Wojnarowski said.

Denver could be without three starters against the Lakers if Wilson Chandler (low back) can’t go. Chandler, who’s missed the Nuggets’ last two games, is listed at questionable. His absence would mean Denver faces the Lakers without all three members of its usual starting frontcourt. Paul Millsap (left wrist) is still a long ways off from returning.

The Nuggets embark on a six-game road trip after they play the Lakers. Starting Monday, they hit the road to face Dallas, New Orleans, Orlando, Indiana, Detroit and Boston.

Denver is 3-7 on the road this season.