Jokic and Murray Lead Nuggets to 116-108 Victory Over Pelicans

Nikola Jokic scored 26 points, grabbed eight rebounds, and handed out 10 assists to help the Denver Nuggets outlast the New Orleans Pelicans 116-108 on Saturday night.

The victory moves Denver to 3-0 against New Orleans this season and marks their fourth win in the last five games. Meanwhile, the loss extends the Pelicans’ skid to six consecutive games, with four of those defeats happening at home.

Jokic shot 9 of 14 from the field and flirted with a triple-double all evening. Jamal Murray contributed 23 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists while shooting 9 of 16 to finish with a team-high +16 rating.

Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with 24 points. Saddiq Bey added 16 points, and rookie guard Jaron Pierre Jr. scored 13 points in 23 minutes after playing earlier that afternoon for the G-League Laketown Squadron.

Jokic dictated the early tempo with nine points in the first quarter, reaching halftime with 12 points, five rebounds, and five assists. The Pelicans fought back behind Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen, who combined for 16 points in the first half.

Pierre cut Denver’s lead to one with a layup with 53 seconds left in the half, and Karlo Matkovic hit a 3-pointer late in the third quarter to bring New Orleans within two points. Christian Braun countered for Denver with 17 points, seven rebounds, and four steals, while a spinning jumper by DeMar DeRozan stretched the lead to 102-87 with 6:36 remaining.

Roster adjustments compounded the difficult stretch for New Orleans. Yves Missi returned from a 10-game absence due to a knee injury on a minutes restriction, posting three points, eight rebounds, and four blocks.

Trey Murphy missed his fourth straight game with a knee injury. Dejounte Murray missed his second consecutive game with an ankle injury after requesting a trade from the Pelicans on Friday.

The Denver Nuggets host Phoenix on Monday night. The New Orleans Pelicans host Golden State on Monday night.

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