Houston Rockets Face Denver Nuggets Without Nikola Jokić in Key Playoff Race Game

The Rockets aim to extend their nine-game winning streak as the Nuggets grapple with injuries and playoff seeding pressure.

Nikola Jokić has been ruled out for the fourth consecutive game due to a left ankle impingement, leaving the Nuggets without their star center.
The Houston Rockets, currently second in the Western Conference, are on a nine-game winning streak and look to solidify their position.
The Denver Nuggets, in third place, are just half a game ahead of the Los Angeles Lakers and one game ahead of the Memphis Grizzlies in a tight playoff race.
Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, and Christian Braun are listed as probable for the Nuggets, while Julian Strawther is confirmed out with a knee injury.
Houston guard Reed Sheppard remains sidelined with a right thumb fracture, marking his ninth straight missed game.