Writer outlines how Nikola Jokic's injury could negatively impact Stephen Curry, Warriors

There’s no question that Nikola Jokic’s injury (hyperextended knee) negatively affects the Denver Nuggets. 

The three-time MVP will miss at least four weeks with his lower-body setback, which could spell doom for a Nuggets squad in a tight Western Conference playoff race. 

However, according to Blue Man Hoop’s Jordanna Clark, Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors could also be affected by Jokic’s unfortunate setback. 

“Luckily, Jokic avoided a serious injury and will be re-evaluated in four weeks,” Clark wrote Tuesday. “Denver sits third in the West, three games back from No. 7 Phoenix (Suns).”

“The Nuggets are now down four starters, and although Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun are expected to return sometime on their road trip, they could slip down into play-in range.”

“That can be a good or bad thing for the Warriors, who can climb up the standings amid the Nuggets' slew of injuries. If they don't, and Denver stumbles, imagine playing Jokic and Co. in the play-in. You actually don't want to imagine that.”

It would be in the Warriors' best interest to punch their ticket to the postseason the easy way: finish in the top 6 in the Western Conference. 

Failing to do so could force the Dubs to go through a motivated Jokic-led Nuggets squad in the No. 7 vs. No. 10 or No. 9 vs. No. 10 play-in contest to extend their season. 

The Warriors, like most teams, don’t have an answer for Jokic, putting the Warriors at a noticeable disadvantage in a potential play-in clash.

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