Denver Nuggets defeat New Orleans Pelicans 104-91

The Denver Nuggets defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 104-91 at the Smoothie King Center. Despite a strong second quarter led by Zion Williamson, who scored 18 points in the first half, the Pelicans struggled with offensive consistency and defensive lapses.

New Orleans initially trailed by 22 points in the second quarter but managed to cut the deficit to 57-45 by halftime. The Pelicans mounted a late run in the third quarter to pull within five points, but ultimately failed to maintain momentum in the closing minutes.

Denver's offense was efficient, shooting 62 percent from the field during a dominant stretch. The Pelicans' performance was hampered by poor shooting in the opening quarter and an injury to Jordan Poole, who left the game in the first half with a left ankle injury.