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Match Facts
Denver visits New Orleans in a matchup between a 10-3 contender and a struggling 2-12 Pelicans squad making early adjustments under interim coach James Borrego. Full team profiles are available on the NBA teams page.
Line and Odds
Nuggets -13.5 (-110), Pelicans +13.5 (-112)
Moneyline: Nuggets -829, Pelicans +565
Total: 232
For updated market movement, check the NBA odds page.
Movement Matchup
Denver’s seven-game win streak ended against Chicago despite another dominant performance from Nikola Jokic, who recorded his eighth triple-double of the season. The Nuggets remain one of the league’s most efficient units, ranking near the top in scoring and field-goal percentage.
New Orleans continues to search for rhythm under Borrego after back-to-back losses without practice time. While the Pelicans continue to struggle defensively, Borrego has highlighted improved stretches of effort and spirit that he wants the team to build on.
Breakdown Injury Reports
New Orleans Pelicans Injury Report
| Player | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Zion Williamson | Out | Hamstring strain; missed eight straight games |
| Jordan Poole | Out | Quad strain; averaging 17.3 PPG before injury |
Denver Nuggets Injury Report
| Player | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Christian Braun | Out | Ankle sprain; out multiple weeks |
| Cameron Johnson | Active | Returned with 19 points and strong perimeter shooting |
New Orleans Pelicans Recent Performance
New Orleans enters on a six-game losing streak and continues to deal with major lineup instability. Zion’s absence removes the team’s lead scorer and best interior finisher, though Trey Murphy (19.7 PPG) and rookies Jeremiah Fears (15.3) and Derik Queen (10.4) have kept the offense afloat. The Pelicans maintain strengths in rim protection and shot disruption but lack the perimeter consistency to support those defensive advantages.
Denver Nuggets Recent Performance
Nikola Jokic leads the NBA in rebounds and assists while averaging nearly 30 points, powering a Nuggets offense ranked second in the league at 124.6 PPG. Jamal Murray adds 23.1 PPG with strong playmaking support, and Aaron Gordon continues to provide reliable scoring. Cam Johnson’s improved shooting adds depth while Braun remains unavailable.
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Handicapping Membership
Betting Insights and Trends
Denver continues to profile as one of the league’s most reliable covering teams due to elite efficiency on both ends. New Orleans’ injuries and inconsistency limit their ability to stay competitive against top-tier offenses, though their rim protection can create occasional matchup advantages. Additional betting context is available through the NBA picks page and the NBA betting guide.
Latest NBA Blogs
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Score: Nuggets 125, Pelicans 109
Best Bet: Nuggets -13.5
Total: Over 232
Handicapper Section
For verified expert selections on this matchup and all NBA action, visit the NBA picks hub.
