Denver Nuggets vs New Orleans Pelicans (Image via Getty) The Denver Nuggets visit New Orleans on January 13, 2026, in a game shaped almost entirely by injuries. What could have been a normal regular-season matchup now looks like a test of depth and basic execution. Both teams are short-handed, and neither will be playing close to full strength.Denver comes in with a strong 26-13 record, but the absence of key players has changed how they play. New Orleans, sitting at 9-32, has spent most of the season dealing with injuries and lineup changes. With limited options on both sides, this game is likely to be slower and more physical, with fewer easy points.
Denver Nuggets Injury Situation vs New Orleans Pelicans (January 13, 2026)
The Denver Nuggets will be without Nikola Jokic, who is out with a left ankle bone bruise. Jokic has been averaging over 29 points per game, and his absence removes Denver’s main playmaker and scorer.Jamal Murray is listed as questionable due to a left ankle sprain and illness. Christian Braun is out with a left ankle sprain, Cam Johnson is sidelined with a right knee bone bruise, and Tamar Bates remains out following left foot surgery. Aaron Gordon is probable despite dealing with a right hamstring strain. Spencer Jones is also probable while managing left ankle inflammation and illness.
New Orleans Pelicans Injury Situation vs Denver Nuggets (January 13, 2026)
The New Orleans Pelicans are missing several rotation players. Dejounte Murray is out with a right Achilles rupture. Herb Jones will not play due to a right ankle sprain, while Jose Alvarado is sidelined with a left oblique strain. Jonas Valanciunas is also out with a right calf strain.Saddiq Bey is listed as questionable with a right hip flexor strain. If he plays, he becomes one of the few reliable scoring options available for New Orleans.
Denver Nuggets vs New Orleans Pelicans Team Performance Overview
Even with injuries, Denver Nuggets has continued to win. The Nuggets are averaging 122.7 points per game and recently earned a 108-104 win over Milwaukee. That result showed their ability to rely on defense and guard play when Jokic is unavailable.New Orleans Pelicans has struggled throughout the season. The 9-32 record reflects ongoing issues on both ends of the floor, made worse by injuries. Bey’s production of around 15 points and five rebounds per game offers some stability, but the roster thins quickly beyond that.
Denver Nuggets vs New Orleans Pelicans Broadcast Information (January 13, 2026)
The game tips off at 6:00 PM MT (7:00 PM CT) at the Smoothie King Center. It will air nationally on ESPN. Local broadcasts are available on Altitude TV for Nuggets viewers and Pelicans coverage in New Orleans. NBA League Pass provides access for out-of-market viewers.
What to Watch Nuggets vs Pelicans Tonight
Denver Nuggets must find ways to score and organize without Jokic. New Orleans Pelicans is simply trying to stay competitive with a depleted lineup. This game is likely decided by defense, rebounding, and which bench holds up longer.