Denver Nuggets vs New Orleans Pelicans Predictions Today
The Denver Nuggets will beat the New Orleans Pelicans, with a projected score of Nuggets 123, Pelicans 118. Nikola Jokić’s playmaking and Denver’s stronger prior-season shooting give the visitors the offensive edge, while Yves Missi’s absence adds to New Orleans’ challenge. Confidence is low given Denver’s defensive problems. Neither Denver -5 (-110) nor the 240.5 total offers a strong enough edge to bet.
Denver Nuggets vs New Orleans Pelicans prediction and best bet
Denver gets the pick because its offensive production offers the stronger starting point. Jamal Murray is averaging 22.3 points through three games, and Jokić is averaging 8.7 assists. The Nuggets also won the recent meeting 141-135 after New Orleans built a 23-point lead. That comeback supports Denver’s chances, although needing it is a warning about how competitive this matchup can be.
The official best bet is Pass. Denver’s recent defensive trouble makes laying five points uncomfortable, and the Pelicans’ winless record alone is no reason to take their +5. The total deserves its own assessment: another productive scoring night is plausible, but 240.5 already asks for substantial offense.
Odds, game time and how to watch
Game: Denver Nuggets at New Orleans Pelicans, October 28, 2026, in the 2026-27 NBA season.
Time and venue: 8:00 p.m. ET at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.
Records: Denver Nuggets 1-2; New Orleans Pelicans 0-3.
Availability: Cameron Johnson is doubtful and Yves Missi is out. Jordan Poole is probable.
SportsJaw spread and moneyline: Denver -5 (-110) and -194; New Orleans +5 (-109) and +169.