Jokic and Murray Lead Nuggets Back From 23 Down to Beat Pelicans

A massive comeback in Denver

The Denver Nuggets pulled off a huge comeback on Saturday night, fighting back from a 23 point deficit to beat the New Orleans Pelicans 141-135 in overtime.

Nikola Jokic led the way with 35 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists. It was his 199th career regular season triple double, which is second all time behind Russell Westbrook, who retired with 209. Jokic scored eight of his points in overtime to secure the win.

Murray and Brazile step up

Jamal Murray scored a team high 42 points for Denver. The Nuggets played short handed without Cam Johnson due to an ankle injury and Alpha Diallo due to a sprained wrist. Julian Strawther and Spencer Jones were also out.

Rookie Trevon Brazile added 17 points in his home debut, scoring seven of those in overtime. His corner three pointer with 1:25 left in overtime put Denver ahead 133-129.

New Orleans shot 65.9% in the first half and built a 23 point lead. Jokic and Murray combined for 22 of Denver's 32 points in the third quarter, but the Pelicans still led by 19 going into the fourth. Denver wiped out the gap with three pointers from Murray and Jokic, a reverse dunk from Aaron Gordon, and two free throws from Murray with 17 seconds left to tie the game.

Pelicans drop third straight

Trey Murphy III led New Orleans with 26 points. Dejounte Murray scored 22 points, while Derik Queen and Zion Williamson each added 17 points. The Pelicans have now lost their first three games under first year coach Jamahl Mosley.

New Orleans did get good news on the injury front. Center Yves Missi suffered a knee injury Friday night in Utah, but tests revealed it is only a contusion.

What it means for the next game

Golden State Warriors at Denver Nuggets (NBA, Tue, 27 Oct): Denver Nuggets win 67%, Golden State Warriors win 33%; projected score Denver Nuggets 120, Golden State Warriors 114. Our safest pick: Warriors +13.5.

Denver Nuggets at New Orleans Pelicans (NBA, Thu, 29 Oct): New Orleans Pelicans win 38%, Denver Nuggets win 62%; projected score New Orleans Pelicans 118, Denver Nuggets 121. Our safest pick: Nuggets +4.5.