The Denver Nuggets are back in New Orleans for another showdown at the Smoothie King Center! Nikola Jokić and his squad will clash with the Pelicans in the 2024-25 NBA season. Just a month ago, the Pelicans stunned the Nuggets in an NBA Cup thriller. But oh, how the tides have turned! Denver sits sixth in the West, while the New Orleans Pelicans struggle at the bottom with a tough 5-24 record. Both teams are in desperate need of a spark—will it ignite on Sunday’s game night?

Well, the Nuggets have their greatest gift, Nikola Jokić. His partnership with Jamal Murray has brought home their 2023 championship. And now with their $6.8 million gem, Russell Westbrook, things have been as we like to say ‘so far so good.’ But just like all teams and all games, there are ups and downs, and major ones might we just add. However, Denver seems to have their way out; always.

But, with the Pelicans things are just going downhill. Every time they think ‘How bad can it get?’ the worst happens. Zion Williamson‘s hamstring injury has sidelined him for over a month now. And yes, it’s a mystery when he’ll return. Well, team coordination has been all over the place for New Orleans and they can only now call upon the Basketball Gods to turn their fate.

Also, while we’re already discussing the team situation of Denver and New Orleans, why don’t we dive deeper? Yes, it’s time to look into the injury report and depth chart of the Pelicans and the Nuggets before their showdown on Sunday. So, let’s begin!

Nuggets vs. Pelicans: Injury Report

Denver Nuggets injury report: Is Nikola Jokić available?

The Denver Nuggets have split their last 10 games and are 7-7 on the road. They faced an astonishing loss of 126-124 against the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday. Nikola Jokić, who will be on the floor against the Pelicans on Sunday, led the team with 34 points. Sadly, all in vain. The Serbian Joker will be there at the Smoothie King Center, analyzing and predicting his rival’s next move and changing the game like a pro that he is. He is currently averaging 31 ppg, 13 rebounds, 9.8 assists, and a crazy 56.5 FG%.

The Nuggets ruled out rookie DaRon Holmes II long before the 2024-25 season began after he underwent surgery to repair a torn right Achilles. Meanwhile, the team will re-evaluate small forward Vlatko Cancar in eight weeks following arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. The team has listed Christian Braun as day-to-day for Sunday’s game against the Pelicans as he manages a lower back strain. Besides, Dario Saric is highly doubtful for Sunday because of his ankle troubles. He is about to miss a second consecutive game due to the same. However, is the luck better on the Pelicans’ end?

New Orleans Pelicans injury report

The New Orleans Pelicans will rely heavily on Dejounte Murray and Trey Murphy III to find their ground against Nikola Jokić and Co. But, let’s just say that the Pelicans aren’t in a great position at the moment. Their 1-9 record in the last ten games is enough to speak volumes about the quicksand they are sinking into. And with Zion Williamson’s return looking doubtful at the moment, the team needs a star to shine for them.

Meanwhile, Brandon Ingram has been ruled out indefinitely due to his high-grade low left ankle sprain. The team could really use his prowess with the ball on the court. But, well- talk about ill luck! Besides, Jose Alvarado (hamstring) and Karlo Matkovic (back) are ruled out of Sunday’s showdown against the Nuggets. Besides, Daniel Theis remains doubtful due to unknown reasons for the big game night.

Now, let’s take a look at the depth charts.

Depth Charts

Denver Nuggets depth chart

New Orleans Pelicans depth chart

So, there you go! It’s not too difficult to understand that Sunday night will be a thriller worth every dime. Now the question is, who will emerge glorious? Nikola Jokić’s Denver Nuggets? Or Trey Murphy III’s New Orleans Pelicans? It’s time to place your bets.