The official injury report confirms Jones as questionable and Watson out, leaving Denver to navigate the opener without one of its young reserves if he cannot go.
Jones last took the floor on March 29 against the Golden State Warriors, playing six minutes off the bench before leaving with a hamstring concern. Denver went on to beat the Warriors 116-93 without him.
In recent practices, Jones has been involved but limited, and head coach David Adelman indicated the sophomore forward has cleared several hurdles but remains to be upgraded to available status.
Game 1 is scheduled for 3:30 PM ET in Colorado, marking the fifth meeting between the teams this season. Denver has fared well against Minnesota, winning three of four games this year after Minnesota swept the Nuggets last season.
Jones has logged about 22 minutes per game over 64 appearances this season, averaging 5.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and roughly one block. His potential return would bolster Denver’s depth as it begins the playoff push.
