Murray, Watson Lead Nuggets to Victory Over Pelicans
The Denver Nuggets secured a significant victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, propelled by outstanding performances from both Michael Watson and Jamal Murray. The win featured a thrilling finish with multiple lead changes in the final moments.
Murray and Watson Shine in Nuggets’ Victory
Watson led the Nuggets with an impressive 31 points, along with seven rebounds and five assists. This marked his first game since being named the Western Conference Player of the Week. Murray added to the team’s success, scoring 12 crucial points in the fourth quarter alone.
Game Highlights
- Watson’s performance included an efficient shooting night where he went 6-for-6 in the second quarter.
- Murray converted all his shots in the fourth, including two three-pointers.
- Tim Hardaway Jr. contributed 18 points for the Nuggets.
The game was tightly contested, with New Orleans’s Trey Murphy III matching Watson’s performance by scoring 31 points. Murphy also performed well in the first half, scoring 22 points and helping his team take a 65-60 lead.
Fourth Quarter Drama
With just over a minute remaining, Murphy tied the game at 114 with a layup. However, Watson quickly responded, putting the Nuggets back in front. Aaron Gordon followed up with a basket, extending the lead. Murray capped off the win by sinking free throws, ending the game at 120-114.
- The Nuggets have now won four of their last five games.
- New Orleans has lost 11 of their last 12 matchups.
Key Statistics
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Watson | 31 | 7 | 5 |
| Jamal Murray | 12 (4th Quarter) | N/A | N/A |
| Trey Murphy III | 31 | N/A | N/A |
| Aaron Gordon | 16 | N/A | N/A |
| Tim Hardaway Jr. | 18 | N/A | N/A |
The Pelicans struggled under the boards, being outrebounded 50 to 33, missing star Nikola Jokic. The Nuggets will next face the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday, while the Pelicans will host the Brooklyn Nets the same day.
