The New Orleans Pelicans visit the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday at Ball Arena with multiple key players sidelined.
Zion Williamson is listed as questionable with a left foot bone contusion, while Dejounte Murray remains out with a right Achilles rupture. Kevon Looney will miss the game due to a left knee sprain, and Trey Alexander and Hunter Dickinson are inactive as two-way G League assignments.
New Orleans enters the matchup at 0–3, struggling to find offensive consistency. Jordan Poole has been the Pelicans’ top scorer, averaging 20 points per game, while Zion has contributed 27 points per game in two appearances. Trey Murphy III is averaging 14.7 points, and Saddiq Bey adds 11 points per game.
The Denver Nuggets (2–1) have largely avoided major setbacks but are managing minor injuries. Cameron Johnson is questionable with right shoulder inflammation, while other two-way players including Tamar Bates and Curtis Jones are inactive.
Despite these absences, Jamal Murray has been prolific, scoring 30.3 points per game, with Nikola Jokic contributing 20 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 15.3 assists per game.
This game marks a critical test for New Orleans’ depleted lineup as they face a Denver team that has averaged 130.3 points while shooting 44% from the field.
The Pelicans will rely heavily on Poole and Murphy III to maintain offensive output. Zion Williamson’s availability will significantly impact New Orleans’ chances.
Denver has won two of its first three games, including a 127–114 victory at Minnesota, powered by Murray’s 43-point performance and Jokic’s double-double with 19 rebounds.
Tip-off is scheduled for 9:00 PM ET at Ball Arena, with both teams looking to refine rotations before the early November stretch.
