The New Orleans Pelicans’ playoffs hopes ended last night, as they could not overcome the Denver Nuggets on their home turf.
Dreams of a miracle run to the NBA playoffs for the New Orleans Pelicans ended last night.
The New Orleans Pelicans put up one of the best offensive performances in the franchise history. New Orleans had 75 points in the first half, which ties the franchise record. They also season high for points tonight, with 131.
However, their defense did not do them favors. While the Pelicans’ shot 51 percent from the field, they let Denver shoot 53.5 percent. While the teams went even on shooting, the Nuggets held a strong advantage on the glass. Denver finished with 15 offensive rebounds and a 50-35 edge in boards during the game.
More from Pelicans News
- How will the Pelicans round out rotation without Trey Murphy III
- Why you can’t blame Brandon Ingram for all Team USA’s failures
- New Orleans Pelicans avoid potential disaster with latest injury reports
- 3 New Orleans Pelicans whose role will increase next season
- Pelicans getting the fans involved with their upcoming festival
Still, the Pelicans would find themselves down just one point, with 18 seconds remaining. Then, disaster struck multiple times. Jrue Holiday would turn the ball over on a backcourt violation. Denver would get fouled and make one free-throw.
Jrue would then have his pass stolen, his second consecutive turnover. Denver would make another free-throw and hold on, after Holiday missed a long-range attempt to tie the game.
Heartbreaking.
In the loss, Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins shined once again. Davis had 41 points and four blocks on the night. Boogie would finish with 30 points, 14 rebounds and nine assists.
Danilo Gallinari led the charge for Denver, with 28 points and five rebounds.
Next: New Orleans Pelicans Analysis: DeMarcus Cousins, A.K.A. Boogie is King
The New Orleans Pelicans will look for revenge Friday night in Denver. They will get a rematch with the Nuggets, as they finish the season on the road. Tip-off is on schedule for 8:00 p.m. CST.