Denver Nuggets vs New Orleans Pelicans Picks and Predictions October 29th 2025

Denver Nuggets vs New Orleans Pelicans Game Preview

The Denver Nuggets host the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Ball Arena. Tipoff is scheduled for 9:00 PM ET, with Denver looking to continue its strong start and New Orleans still seeking its first win of the season.

The Nuggets (2-1) are fresh off a convincing 127-114 win over Minnesota, snapping a six-game losing streak to the Timberwolves dating back to last postseason. Meanwhile, the Pelicans (0-3) were blown out 122-90 by Boston on Monday, and the potential absence of Zion Williamson (foot) looms large once again.

Line Movement and Odds

• Spread: Nuggets -12.5 (-111), Pelicans +12.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: Nuggets -750, Pelicans +525
• Total: 236.0 (Over/Under)

You can track real-time line changes on the NBA odds page and find verified picks in the NBA picks section.

New Orleans Pelicans Outlook

The Pelicans have had a brutal start to the season — both in performance and health. Their latest setback was a 32-point home loss to Boston in which they shot just 39.2% from the field and went 6-for-25 from three. Jordan Poole was the lone bright spot, scoring 22 points, but the supporting cast faltered badly.

Zion Williamson’s availability is the biggest storyline. He’s listed as questionable with left foot soreness and has already missed one game this week. Without him, New Orleans’ offense looks disjointed, averaging 109.3 points per game and lacking a true inside presence.

Defensively, New Orleans still shows flashes of potential. They rank third in three-point percentage allowed and ninth in opponent turnovers forced per game. If they can limit Denver’s outside shooting and push the pace in transition, the Pelicans could stay competitive.

Injury Report

• Zion Williamson (F) – Questionable, Foot
• Kevon Looney (F/C) – Out, Undisclosed
• Dyson Daniels (G) – Questionable, Illness

Denver Nuggets Outlook

The Nuggets are finding their rhythm early in the season and enter this matchup with plenty of confidence. Nikola Jokic has opened the year with three straight triple-doubles, averaging 20.0 points, 15.3 rebounds, and 11.7 assists per game. Jamal Murray is red-hot, coming off a 43-point outburst in Minnesota while shooting 57% from the floor.

Denver leads the league in offensive efficiency, scoring 130.3 points per game on 52.4% shooting. The addition of Tim Hardaway Jr. has bolstered their second unit — he scored 20 points on 4-of-6 three-point shooting Monday — giving head coach David Adelman more flexibility when managing rotations.

Cam Johnson (shoulder) remains questionable, which could open starting minutes for Bruce Brown or Peyton Watson. Regardless of the lineup, Denver’s elite spacing, ball movement, and home-court advantage make them a heavy favorite against a short-handed Pelicans squad.

Injury Report

• Cam Johnson (F) – Questionable, Shoulder
• Michael Porter Jr. (F) – Probable, Rest
• DeAndre Jordan (C) – Out, Calf

Betting Trends

• Pelicans are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games as road underdogs.
• Nuggets are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 home games.
• Pelicans are 4-1 to the Under in their last 5 matchups vs Denver.
• Nuggets have hit the Over in 6 of their last 8 games overall.

Prediction

The Pelicans’ offense relies heavily on Zion Williamson’s presence, and without him, they simply lack the firepower to keep up with Denver’s depth and efficiency. Jokic and Murray are in elite form, and Denver’s home dominance should continue.

Projected Score: Nuggets 128, Pelicans 112
Best Bet: Nuggets -12.5 (-111)
Total Lean: Under 236 (-110)

For more verified insights and player props, check the NBA expert betting guide and the handicappers leaderboard.