The Denver Nuggets defeated the visiting New Orleans Pelicans, 125-113, at Ball Arena on Friday.

While there were seven lead changes in the opening minutes, Denver never relinquished the lead after a 37-25 first quarter. They held a double-digit lead across the final three frames, getting their lead up to 22 points at times. The Nuggets shot 56 percent from the field while holding the Pelicans to 47 percent shooting. Denver out-rebounded New Orleans, 56-41, while outscoring them in the paint, 56-50. The Nuggets also outscored the Pels in second-chance points, 16-6.

The Pelicans (23-16) were led by Zion Williamson, collecting 30 points, six rebounds and five assists. Jonas Valanciunas amassed 17 points and six boards. CJ McCollum collected 12 points, five rebounds and seven assists, while Brandon Ingram had nine points, four rebounds and six assists. Larry Nance Jr led the bench with 13 points, two rebounds and two steals.

The Nuggets (27-13) got a triple-double from Nikola Jokic, finishing with 27 points, 10 rebounds and 14 assists. Jamal Murray tallied 20 points, two rebounds and nine assists. Michael Porter Jr provided 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Aaron Gordon accrued 15 points, five rebounds and two assists. Reggie Jackson led the bench with 12 points.

New Orleans has to play again on Saturday, staying on the road to play the Dallas Mavericks. As for Denver, they return to action on Sunday in a home matchup with the Indiana Pacers.