Can the Pelicans' Paint Dominance Overcome Nuggets' Sharp Shooting?
In a high-scoring affair at Ball Arena, the New Orleans Pelicans fell to the Denver Nuggets with a final tally of 125-113. The Pelicans entered the game with a 23-16 record, while the Nuggets boasted a slightly better standing at 27-13. Despite an impressive offensive display, it was not enough to secure victory for the visiting team.
The New Orleans Pelicans showcased their ability to control the paint, scoring 50 points in that area and attempting 45 shots within it, making 25. Their efficiency from two-point range was evident as they made over half of their attempts (52 percent). The team's overall field goal percentage stood at a respectable 47 percent, with three-point shots falling at a rate of 39 percent. From beyond the arc, they attempted 33 threes and successfully made 13.
Assists were plentiful for both teams; each racked up an impressive total of 30 assists. The Pelicans also demonstrated active hands on defense by accumulating nine steals throughout the game. However, they were outmatched by Denver's sharpshooting which posted an effective field goal percentage of an imposing 63 percent.
The bench played a significant role for New Orleans as well, contributing a solid sum of points totaling up to thirty-seven. Rebounding was another area where they showed effort but ultimately fell short against Denver's robust rebounding performance; collecting forty-one rebounds in comparison to fifty-six by their opponents.
Despite trailing behind during most parts of the game – leading only for about four minutes – there were moments where resilience shone through for New Orleans. They managed to carve out a small lead during one stretch but couldn't sustain this momentum against Denver's consistent scoring drives.
Looking ahead after this tough loss on foreign hardwoods, fans can catch their next chance to support The Pelicans when they face off against Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Center in Dallas on January 13th at around half past seven in the evening local time (7:30 PM). This encounter will be broadcasted on BSSW and BSNO channels respectively for home and away fans eager to follow every play live from Texas.