Brandon Ingram delivered a standout performance, scoring 29 points to propel the New Orleans Pelicans to a much-needed 101-94 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Friday night. Despite twisting his left ankle in the second half, Ingram persevered, helping the injury-hit Pelicans snap a six-game losing streak and end Denver’s five-game winning run. Contributions from Brandon Boston Jr. (19 points) and Trey Murphy III (17 points) bolstered New Orleans, as they outshot the Nuggets and found a rhythm absent in previous games.
Without three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, who missed the game for personal reasons, the Nuggets struggled offensively. Michael Porter Jr. led Denver with 24 points, while Peyton Watson added 18 and Jamal Murray chipped in 16, though his long-range shooting woes (2-for-8 from three) underscored the team’s struggles.
New Orleans showcased resilience and effective adjustments, particularly during a critical stretch late in the fourth quarter. After Denver trimmed the lead to 87-86 with just over six minutes remaining, the Pelicans surged with an 8-0 run capped by key three-pointers from Javonte Green and Boston. Denver, typically lethal from deep (40.4% on the season), managed just 10 of 37 three-point attempts, hindered further by New Orleans‘ aggressive defense.
Assistant coach David Adelman stepped in for Michael Malone, who stayed in Colorado to support his daughter at a volleyball playoff. Meanwhile, New Orleans rediscovered its offensive groove, with Ingram, Murphy, and Boston combining for 26-of-54 shooting. The win provides a morale boost for the Pelicans as they prepare to host the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday night.
