Nuggets Defeat Pelicans 104-91 Behind Murray and Jokic.
NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Denver Nuggets continued their strong start to the season Wednesday night, defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 104-91 at the Smoothie King Center. Jamal Murray led Denver with 23 points, while Nikola Jokic recorded another triple-double to help the Nuggets secure their second victory over New Orleans this season. Murray delivered an efficient offensive performance, shooting 9-of-19 from the field and connecting on five three-pointers. He also contributed six assists and two blocked shots in 38 minutes. Jokic continued to demonstrate his versatility, finishing with 21 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists. The three-time NBA MVP shot 8-of-13 from the field and made all five of his free-throw attempts. Aaron Gordon provided another strong performance for Denver, recording 15 points and 11 rebounds. Christian Braun added 15 points, four assists and three steals, while Trevon Brazile contributed 11 points and eight rebounds. Denver controlled the game from start to finish, building a lead that reached 22 points. The Nuggets shot 46% from the field and 39% from beyond the arc, making 12 three-pointers compared to just seven for New Orleans. The Nuggets also capitalized on their opportunities at the free-throw line, converting 18 of 19 attempts. New Orleans was led by Zion Williamson, who finished with a game-high 25 points on 10-of-14 shooting. Williamson also recorded five rebounds and three steals, but his performance was not enough to overcome Denver's balanced attack. Rookie Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen each contributed 11 points for the Pelicans, with Queen adding 12 rebounds. Dejounte Murray finished with 10 points, eight rebounds and five assists.
The Pelicans struggled offensively, shooting 41% from the field and just 23% from three-point range. Their difficulties from beyond the arc limited their ability to close the gap against a Denver team that maintained control throughout the contest. Denver also received contributions from its reserves, including eight points from Marvin Bagley III and six points and five assists from DeMar DeRozan. The victory improved the Nuggets to 2-2 on the season, while New Orleans dropped to 0-4. Wednesday's result also gave Denver a 2-0 advantage in the season series after its dramatic 141-135 overtime victory over New Orleans on October 24. The two teams are scheduled to meet again November 14 in New Orleans as the Nuggets look to continue their success against the Pelicans.
For Denver, the combination of Murray's perimeter shooting, Jokic's all-around production and contributions throughout the starting lineup proved decisive in another convincing victory.
