Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets' star center, has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Boston Celtics due to an illness. Initially listed as probable, Jokic's status was downgraded to questionable before he was ultimately sidelined.

This marks a notable absence for the Nuggets, as Jokic has been a dominant force this season, averaging an impressive 31.5 points, 13 rebounds, and 9.7 assists per game. His absence comes on the heels of missing three games in November while on paternity leave for his newborn child, during which the Nuggets struggled, finishing with a 1-2 record.

In a parallel situation, Derrick White of the Celtics is also unavailable for the night, highlighting the impact of player health as the season progresses.