Tonight vs the New Orleans Pelicans, the Denver Nuggets will be without the three-time MVP.

According to Bennett Durando of the Denver Post, Nuggets center Nikola Jokic will be OUT due to personal reasons.

It’s been speculated that Natalija and Nikola Jokic are expecting their second baby in the coming days, and while it’s not confirmed to be the reason for Nikola’s absence, it’s a reasonably good inference. Obviously, it’s never ideal to miss a game, but being present in that moment is far more important than any November game the Nuggets could possibly be playing.

Of course, it’s unfortunate for Denver this time because they’re playing their first NBA Cup game tonight against the Pelicans. The Nuggets are in Western Conference Group C with the Pelicans, Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, and Memphis Grizzlies. It’s a tough group, but this first game will probably be one of the easier matchups for Denver. The Pelicans will be without several starters, including star power forward Zion Williamson. It’s an opportunity for the Nuggets to get off to a good start in group play in a road environment.

Unfortunately, the Nuggets will have to do it without Jokic. With Aaron Gordon already out, Denver’s frontcourt may be at a disadvantage. Expect one of Zeke Nnaji, DeAndre Jordan, or Dario Saric to start in his place. Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. will be tasked with more scoring responsibility, while Russell Westbrook may play extended minutes off the bench as a primary facilitator.

Jokic has averaged 29.7 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 11.7 assists per game over his first 10 games of the season and is a leading candidate for the NBA MVP award for the fourth time in his career.