Denver’s first-quarter edge held up in a 116-108 win over New Orleans.
Denver took control with a 29-23 first quarter and carried an 86-82 lead into the fourth. The Nuggets then outscored New Orleans 30-26 in the final period to secure the 116-108 road win. Nikola Jokic led Denver with 26 points on 9-of-14 shooting, adding eight rebounds, 10 assists, three steals and four turnovers. Jamal Murray posted 23 points on 9-of-16 shooting with seven rebounds, nine assists, two blocks and four turnovers. Christian Braun supplied 17 points, seven rebounds and four steals, shooting 6-for-14 and committing no turnovers. Zion Williamson paced the Pelicans with 24 points on 9-of-16 shooting, six rebounds, two assists, two blocks and two turnovers. Saddiq Bey added 16 points, six rebounds and four assists for New Orleans, but Denver maintained its eight-point cushion.
Key Performers
Nikola Jokic (DEN): 26 PTS, 8 REB, 10 AST, 3 STL; 9/14 FG Jamal Murray (DEN): 23 PTS, 7 REB, 9 AST, 2 BLK; 9/16 FG Zion Williamson (NOP): 24 PTS, 6 REB, 2 AST, 2 BLK; 9/16 FG
Standings Impact
Denver is 7-4 and No. 11 in the power index; New Orleans is 4-10 and No. 26.
DYMA Insight
Denver’s opening-quarter advantage and stronger fourth-quarter finish were decisive. The Nuggets entered with a +20 point differential, while New Orleans stood at -127.