Jokic was efficient, shooting 10-of-15 from the field in just 28 minutes before sitting out the fourth quarter. The Nuggets broke the game open with a 24-0 run in the third quarter, expanding their lead to 33 points and allowing the starters to rest. Jamal Murray and Christian Braun each contributed 17 points as Denver improved to 3-1, bouncing back from an opening loss to the Golden State Warriors with three consecutive wins.
For the Pelicans, rookie Jeremiah Fears led with a season-high 21 points. Zion Williamson, returning from a left foot bone bruise, was limited to 11 points after scoring 27 in each of his first two games. New Orleans struggled offensively, shooting just 37.2% from the field, 20.6% (7-for-34) from three-point range, and 58.6% from the free-throw line. The Pelicans dropped to 0-4 for the first time since the 2019-20 season.
The Nuggets will next face the Portland Trail Blazers, while the Pelicans travel to play the Los Angeles Clippers. For more game details and stats, visit the AP NBA Hub.