Well, you knew the odds were stacked against New Orleans this Friday evening.
Missing their two leading scorers in Brandon Ingram and Jonas Valanciunas, the Pelicans were always going to have trouble keeping up with the Nuggets, who entered SKC on a high-scoring binge over the last few weeks. However, as it’s become a customary display this season, New Orleans didn’t forget to bring their energy — they tallied 14 steals — making things competitive despite the 116-105 loss.
After jumping out to an 11-6 start, the Pelicans watched Denver go on a 9-0 run and then later seize a 26-17 first quarter lead behind 12 trips to the free throw line.