The regular season is just two weeks away, so there’s no better time than now for teams to test their core. With the NBA preseason underway, the Denver Nuggets are set to tip off their exhibition schedule against the Minnesota Timberwolves. All eyes are on the team’s superstar center, Nikola Jokić, as he returns to action following a busy offseason. Jokic led Serbia in EuroBasket 2025 and had an unexpected elimination in the Round of 16 after averaging 22.3 points per game.

Jokic enters this preseason healthy and committed to the Nuggets’ long-term future, having recently stated, “My plan is to be a Nugget forever.” His presence is crucial for a team that has reshaped its roster after a playoff exit last May, after losing 125-93 against the OKC Thunder in Game 7 of the West conference semifinal. Now, the matchup against the Timberwolves offers the first glimpse of how the new pieces will fit around their franchise player, making his participation a key point of interest for fans and analysts.

Is Nikola Jokic playing the Timberwolves?

Yes, Nikola Jokic is confirmed to play in the Nuggets’ preseason opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Head coach David Adelman has provided a clear and positive update on the entire team’s availability for the game. He stated, “As far as I know, everybody’s available,” leaving no doubt about Jokic’s status for this first exhibition contest

Coach Adelman emphasized the value he places on these preseason games for building team chemistry. He explained the decision to play the starters, noting, “I think, because our schedule, the way it is… you’ll see our guys play. I think it’s important. It’s almost like a practice for them.” This approach indicates Jokic and other key starters will see the court, though their minutes will likely be limited as is standard in preseason openers.

This game marks Jokic’s first action in a Nuggets uniform since the team’s playoff loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder last season. It also serves as the debut for new additions like forward Cam Johnson, who will have his first opportunity to build on-court rapport with the star center. Fans can expect to see the core group together for the first time since the roster changes.

Denver Nuggets injury report and roster updates for the upcoming game

The Nuggets enter their preseason opener with a remarkably clean bill of health. No players are listed on the official injury report, a rarity at the start of the exhibition schedule. This allows Coach Adelman to have his full roster available to experiment with rotations and build cohesion from day one.

The team’s expected starting lineup features:

• Jamal Murray
• Christian Braun
• Cam Johnson
• Aaron Gordon
• Nikola Jokic

This lineup showcases the team’s revamped wing depth following the offseason trade that sent Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets. The bench has also been significantly strengthened. The additions of Jonas Valančiūnas, Tim Hardaway Jr., and the re-signing of Bruce Brown provide the kind of reliable depth the team was seeking after last season’s playoff run. The only player on the injury list is Hunter Tyson. He, too, is listed as a game-time decision.

Where to watch Nuggets vs Timberwolves

The Nuggets and Timberwolves will face off at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego, California. This neutral-site game offers a rare opportunity for fans in Southern California to see NBA action. The game tips off at 8:00 PM CDT on Saturday, October 4.

For television and streaming, the primary option is NBA League Pass, which will carry the Nuggets’ Altitude TV broadcast. Viewers in the Denver market can also watch the game locally on Altitude Sports. Prime Video is also listed as carrying the preseason broadcast, providing an additional viewing option for fans.

Radio listeners can tune in through the Nuggets’ broadcast on Altitude Sports Radio 92.5 FM. Timberwolves fans can listen to Alan Horton’s call on KFAN FM 100.3, accessible via the Timberwolves app or the iHeart Radio app. Doors at the Pechanga Arena open at 4:30 PM local time for fans attending in person.