**Season Opener Loss For Pelicans, Murray Injured**

ZAGO 𝕸𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖆

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Post on Oct 25, 2024

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Season Opener Loss for Pelicans, Murray Injured: A Troubling Start

The New Orleans Pelicans opened their season with a disappointing loss to the Denver Nuggets, falling 119-107 in a game that saw the Pelicans struggle defensively and lose key player Devonte' Graham to a sprained ankle. The loss was compounded by a concerning injury to Jose Alvarado, who left the game in the second quarter after a hard foul from Jamal Murray.

A Rough Night for the Pelicans

The Pelicans, who were hoping to build on their playoff run from last season, looked out of sync offensively and were overwhelmed by the Nuggets' pace and shooting. Brandon Ingram led the Pelicans with 24 points, but he struggled from the field, shooting just 8-for-20. Zion Williamson, who returned to action after missing the entire 2022-23 season, showed flashes of his explosive scoring ability, but was limited by foul trouble, finishing with 15 points in 22 minutes.

The lack of defensive intensity was particularly noticeable, as the Nuggets shot an impressive 54.5% from the field, including 16 three-pointers. Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with 28 points and 11 assists, showcasing his dominant presence in the paint.

Alvarado Injury Casts a Shadow

The injury to Alvarado was perhaps the most concerning aspect of the game. The young guard, known for his relentless hustle and energy, was fouled hard by Murray while attempting a layup, leaving him writhing on the floor in pain. While the extent of the injury is yet to be determined, it's a significant blow to the Pelicans' backcourt depth, especially given Graham's injury.

Looking Ahead: What's Next for the Pelicans?

The Pelicans face a tough schedule coming out of the gates, with several challenging matchups in the coming weeks. While the season opener was a disappointing start, there's no reason to panic yet. The team is still finding its rhythm and chemistry, especially with the return of Williamson.

However, the injuries to Graham and Alvarado are definitely cause for concern. The team will need to find ways to compensate for their absences, whether through increased minutes for other guards or by exploring the trade market for reinforcements.

The Pelicans have a lot of talent on their roster, and the season is still very young. But if they want to build on their success from last year, they need to get their defense in order, find ways to manage the injuries, and consistently perform at a high level.