NEW ORLEANS – In a game that highlighted the resilience of both teams, the Denver Nuggets edged out the New Orleans Pelicans 132-129 in overtime on Sunday night. Reigning MVP Nikola Jokic shook off a slow start to deliver a masterful triple-double performance, finishing with 27 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists. Jokic’s contributions, particularly in the second half, propelled the Nuggets back from a nine-point deficit midway through the fourth quarter.
Jamal Murray matched Jokic’s scoring total with 27 points of his own, including Denver’s final five points in overtime. The Pelicans, led by rookie Jordan Hawkins with 25 points and CJ McCollum with 24, showed grit and determination but fell just short as Denver’s experience shined in critical moments.
New Orleans appeared poised for an upset, leading 107-98 with under eight minutes left in regulation. However, a blistering 15-2 Nuggets run, anchored by Jokic’s seven points, shifted momentum. McCollum’s clutch 3-pointer briefly gave the Pelicans a late lead, but Jamal Murray responded with a crucial basket to force overtime.
In the extra period, Jokic took command, scoring Denver’s first six points and facilitating an Aaron Gordon layup to secure the victory. While the Pelicans showcased promise, particularly with a season-high 37 assists, their inability to close out games against elite competition continues to haunt them. With key matchups ahead, both teams will look to build on the lessons from this thrilling contest.
