Murray Scores 42 as Nuggets Erase 23-Point Deficit to Defeat Pelicans in Overtime.
DENVER, Colo. — The Denver Nuggets delivered an impressive comeback Saturday night, overcoming a 23-point deficit to defeat the New Orleans Pelicans 141-135 in overtime at home. Jamal Murray led Denver with 42 points, while Nikola Jokic recorded his 199th career regular-season triple-double with 35 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists. Jokic scored eight points in overtime to help the Nuggets complete the comeback despite playing without several key contributors. Denver also received an important performance from rookie Trevon Brazille, who scored 17 points in his home debut. Seven of those points came in overtime, including a corner three-pointer with 1:25 remaining that extended Denver's lead to 133-129.
New Orleans controlled much of the first half, shooting an impressive 65.9% from the field and building a 23-point advantage. Denver struggled to contain the Pelicans' offense early but gradually worked its way back into contention. Jokic and Murray combined for 22 of Denver's 32 third-quarter points. However, New Orleans maintained control and entered the fourth quarter with a 19-point lead. The Nuggets responded with a strong fourth-quarter push. Three-pointers from Murray and Jokic helped close the gap, while Aaron Gordon contributed a reverse dunk during Denver's comeback. With 17 seconds remaining in regulation, Murray had an opportunity to give Denver the lead at the free-throw line. He converted two of three attempts, tying the game and helping send the contest into overtime.
Denver carried its momentum into the extra period. Jokic took control offensively, while Brazille provided crucial scoring as the Nuggets secured the six-point victory.
Trey Murphy III led New Orleans with 26 points, followed by Dejounte Murray with 22. Derik Queen and Zion Williamson each contributed 17 points.
The loss dropped the Pelicans to 0-3 under first-year head coach Jamahl Mosley.
Denver entered Saturday's matchup dealing with multiple injuries. Cam Johnson was unavailable because of an ankle injury, while Alpha Diallo missed the contest with a sprained wrist. Julian Strawther and Spencer Jones also remained sidelined. Despite the limited roster, the Nuggets received enough production from their available players to overcome New Orleans' early offensive dominance. Jokic's latest triple-double also brought him within 10 of Russell Westbrook's NBA regular-season record of 209. The victory highlighted Denver's ability to respond under pressure, with Murray's scoring, Jokic's all-around production, and Brazille's late contributions playing major roles in the comeback.
Up Next: The Nuggets will host the Golden State Warriors on Monday night before traveling to New Orleans for a rematch against the Pelicans on Wednesday.
