Nuggets Edge Past Pelicans in Tight 122-116 Victory

Jamal Murray and Peyton Watson lead Denver to fourth win in five games

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:55pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting featuring sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant colors, capturing the raw energy and movement of a basketball game.A cubist interpretation of the intense battle between the Nuggets and Pelicans, with the players' forms fragmented into a dynamic, geometric composition.New Orleans Today

The Denver Nuggets defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 122-116 in a thrilling NBA matchup on Tuesday night. Jamal Murray scored 35 points and dished out 9 assists, while Peyton Watson added 31 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists to power the Nuggets to victory. The Pelicans were led by Trey Murphy III's 31 points, but their struggles continued as they lost for the 11th time in the last 12 games.

Why it matters

This win helps the Nuggets maintain their position in the Western Conference playoff race, while the Pelicans' season-long slump raises questions about what strategies they can implement to turn things around. The game featured standout individual performances and a close, competitive finish that showcased the high level of talent and intensity in the NBA.

The details

The Nuggets overcame a halftime deficit to rally in the second half, with Murray and Watson leading the charge. Murray was particularly dominant in the fourth quarter, scoring 12 points in just 8 minutes to help Denver pull away. Watson also had a strong game, going a perfect 6-for-6 from the field in the second quarter to keep the Nuggets within striking distance. Despite Trey Murphy III's 31 points for the Pelicans, they were unable to hold on to the lead and ultimately fell short.

  • The game took place on Tuesday, April 11, 2026 in New Orleans.
  • Murray scored 11 points in the first quarter to keep the Nuggets close.
  • Watson scored 15 points in the second quarter to help the Nuggets cut the halftime deficit to 65-60.
  • Murray scored 12 points in the final 8 minutes of the fourth quarter to seal the victory for the Nuggets.
  • The game was the Nuggets' fourth win in their last five games after starting the new year with two losses.

The players

Jamal Murray

The Denver Nuggets star guard scored 35 points and dished out 9 assists to lead his team to victory.

Peyton Watson

The Nuggets forward finished with 31 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, including a crucial jumper in the final minute to put Denver ahead for good.

Trey Murphy III

The New Orleans Pelicans forward scored a team-high 31 points in the losing effort.

Tim Hardaway Jr.

The Nuggets guard contributed 18 points to the winning effort.

Aaron Gordon

The Nuggets forward added 16 points to help secure the victory.

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What they’re saying

“Jamal Murray was just unstoppable in the fourth quarter. He really took over the game when we needed him most.”

— Michael Malone, Denver Nuggets Head Coach

“We had our chances, but just couldn't get over the hump. Trey played his heart out, but we couldn't find a way to get the win.”

— Willie Green, New Orleans Pelicans Head Coach

What’s next

The Nuggets will look to build on this win when they face the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday, while the Pelicans will host the Brooklyn Nets on the same day as they try to snap their recent skid.

The takeaway

This game showcased the high level of talent and competitiveness in the NBA, with both teams battling hard until the final seconds. The Nuggets' ability to rally in the second half and make the crucial plays down the stretch highlights their resilience and championship aspirations, while the Pelicans' continued struggles raise questions about what they need to do to turn their season around.