Sun Nov 23 04:00:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the Nuggets’ victory over the Pelicans:

Nuggets Beat Pelicans Despite Jokic Foul-Out; Watson Explodes for Career High

NEW ORLEANS — Nikola Jokic recorded a triple-double (28 points, 12 assists, 11 rebounds), but it was Peyton Watson’s career-high 32 points that propelled the Denver Nuggets to a 125-118 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday night. The win marks Denver’s eighth in their last nine games.

The Pelicans saw the return of Zion Williamson (14 points) from a hamstring injury, but the team’s struggles continued, marking their seventh consecutive loss and third under interim coach James Borrego. Rookie center Derik Queen had a breakout performance with a season-high 30 points and nine rebounds, even forcing Jokic to foul out late in the fourth quarter.

New Orleans initially surged to an early lead, but Denver chipped away, taking control late in the second quarter. Watson’s hot start to the second half and Jokic’s dominance helped extend the Nuggets’ lead to 17. While the Pelicans threatened a comeback late in the game, clutch shots from former Pelican Jonas Valanciunas (14 points) sealed the win for Denver. Rookie Jeremiah Fears had another strong game for the Pelicans with 16 points.

The Nuggets (x-x) will visit the Houston Rockets on Friday night in NBA Cup West Group C play. The Pelicans (x-x) visit the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night in NBA Cup West Group B play.

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