The Denver Nuggets could be without Spencer Jones for their 2026-27 regular-season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night, an ironic development considering the two teams' offseason history involving the forward.

As Denver prepares to face Oklahoma City (1-0) on the road at 6:30 p.m. PT on ESPN, the Nuggets listed Jones as questionable with bilateral hamstring injury management.

The designation comes after Denver matched the Thunder's two-year, $12 million offer sheet for Jones during restricted free agency this offseason, keeping the forward from joining Oklahoma City.

Jones' questionable status now leaves his availability uncertain for a matchup against the same organization that attempted to acquire him.

The Nuggets also ruled out guard Julian Strawther with a left knee sprain, leaving Denver with another potential absence as it begins its regular-season campaign.

Spencer Jones questionable as Thunder rule out three players against Nuggets

Apr 27, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Spencer Jones (21) in the third quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves during game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Ball Arena with Thunder logo in the background
Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder will be without three young players as they look to build on their season-opening victory.

Oklahoma City ruled out Otega Oweh as he continues recovering from right Achilles tendon repair surgery. Thomas Sorber will also remain sidelined following right knee surgery, while Nikola Topic is unavailable after undergoing lower back surgery.

The Thunder enter Thursday's matchup following a 116-104 road victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday night.

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Oklahoma City will now look to improve to 2-0 as it prepares for another Western Conference matchup against a Denver team featuring three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic.

For the Nuggets, Thursday's contest marks their first opportunity to establish momentum after an offseason that included several roster decisions and financial considerations.

However, Jones' uncertain availability creates an unusual storyline heading into the opener, particularly after Oklahoma City's unsuccessful attempt to sign him away from Denver.

His status will be worth monitoring ahead of tipoff as the Nuggets attempt to begin their season with a road victory over the Thunder.