Pelicans Dispose Nuggets In Impressive Win

Playing at home for the first time in nearly two weeks, the New Orleans Pelicans (13-14) gave their fans a post-Christmas present, upending the Denver Nuggets 105-89.

Tyreke Evans was fantastic for the second straight game, coming off the pine to lead the Pelicans in scoring (19) and assists (10).

"I think we're turning the corner," explained Evans in postgame. "We are still getting better."

Ryan Anderson, who started in place of an injured Jason Smith (missed 3rd straight game with knee contusion), chipped in a double-double (16 pt, 10 reb), while Anthony Davis overcame first half foul trouble (only 7 minutes in the first half) to score 16, grab 7 boards, and block 4 shots.

Friday night's victory was the Pelicans first this season versus a team with a winning-record. The Nuggets fell to 14-14 with the loss.

New Orleans came out shooting well early, leaning on young players like Darius Miller. The second-year guard out of Kentucky had his second double-digit scoring night of his career (11 points), both occurrences coming against the Nuggets.

Point guard Jrue Holiday (pictured) was efficient, scoring 17, dishing out 8 assists, and swiping 4 steals. He and Evans had to pick up a bigger offensive load since starting shooting guard Eric Gordon sat out the contest with an injured hip.

The Pelicans will try to win their third straight Saturday night, as they head to Houston for a showdown with the Rockets. Tip-off is set for 7:00.