The Denver Nuggets showcased their resilience on Sunday night, overcoming the New Orleans Pelicans 132-129 in overtime at the Smoothie King Center. After losing to the Portland Trail Blazers just two days prior, the Nuggets were eager to secure a victory and restore some momentum, bolstered by their star player, Nikola Jokic.
The game unfolded as both teams battled intensely. Jokic, who finished the night with 27 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists, played a pivotal role in the Nuggets' comeback. Remarkably, he scored the Nuggets' first six points of overtime, proving once again why he is considered one of the best players currently gracing the NBA courts. Pelicans’ coach Willie Green praised Jokic's gameplay prior to the match, stating, "He’s one of the best I’ve seen," highlighting the challenge his team faced against the reigning league MVP.
The victory marked the seventh consecutive loss for the Pelicans, who struggled throughout the contest with injuries affecting their roster. New Orleans has been unable to capitalize on promising leads, having blown double-digit advantages for the second consecutive game. Earlier, they had taken the lead entering the fourth quarter, partly thanks to outstanding performances from CJ McCollum, who scored 24 points, and rookie Yves Missi, who added 21 points and 9 rebounds.
The game was rife with tension as both teams exchanged leads. Initially, the Pelicans dominated the match, amassing significant margins. They led by as much as 67-59 at halftime, benefiting from the Nuggets' slow start, particularly Jokic's, who had only mustered 15 points at the end of the third quarter.
Yet, it was Jokic's clutch moments and pivotal plays, especially his impressive corner three-pointer at the buzzer to end the third quarter, which shifted the momentum back to the Nuggets. His ability to read the game and orchestrate plays proved decisive, raising the stakes for the Pelicans as they barrelled toward the final moments of regulation.
Despite the Nuggets’ scoring strength and Jokic's remarkable contributions, the Pelicans kept fighting. With time winding down, McCollum had the opportunity to clinch the game with a three-pointer at the buzzer, but the shot rattled off the rim, sending the game to overtime.
Once the game entered the extra period, it was clear who was destined for glory. Jokic demonstrated his versatility by both scoring and facilitating, as he assisted on key plays in overtime, proving too much for the Pelicans to handle. The Nuggets found success not only through Jokic's contributions but also with Jamal Murray's support, who scored effectively throughout the night. Murray finished the game with 21 points and added necessary depth to the Nuggets' scoring arsenal.
Pelicans coach Willie Green acknowledged the impact of Jokic and his partner Aaron Gordon, who were significant factors during the game. Green reflected, "You put those two guys on the floor and they have playoff and championship experience. That changes everything; it makes their team stronger."
The Nuggets now aim to leverage this victory as they navigate their schedule, seeking continued improvement and growth as they juggle their ambitions of making a late push in the Western Conference standings. Meanwhile, the Pelicans face several challenges, struggling with injuries and failing to build momentum. With Zion Williamson sidelined and Brandon Ingram out indefinitely, they find themselves clutching for answers as they work through their recent form.
Looking forward, both teams will have their work cut out for them. The Nuggets must continue capitalizing on Jokic's brilliance to build consistency and maintain their playoff position. The Pelicans, on the other hand, with slim playoff hopes, need to regroup and find some momentum to restore confidence to their squad. So, as they await their next matchups, questions linger over their respective futures this season.
