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Top Performers Shine as New Orleans Pelicans Prepare to Face Oklahoma City Thunder

The New Orleans Pelicans are gearing up to face off against the Oklahoma City Thunder in an exciting NBA matchup. Both teams have been showcasing some impressive performances in their previous games, and fans can expect a thrilling showdown on the court.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 9: Tre Mann #23 of the Oklahoma City Thunder drives to the basket during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on April 9, 2023 at Paycom Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images)

In their last three games, the New Orleans Pelicans have seen standout performances from several key players. Brandon Ingram, a forward for the Pelicans, has been on fire with an average of 34 points per game. His shooting accuracy has been exceptional, with a field goal percentage of 57.1 percent. Ingram's ability to score from both inside and outside the arc makes him a formidable threat to any defense.


Jonas Valanciunas, the center for the Pelicans, has also been making his presence known on the court. In addition to averaging 12 rebounds per game, Valanciunas has been a defensive force with one block per game. His ability to protect the rim and control the boards gives the Pelicans an advantage in controlling the tempo of the game.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - APRIL 09: John Konchar #46 of the Memphis Grizzlies passes the ball past Tre Mann #23 of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Jared Butler #14 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second quarter at Paycom Center on April 09, 2023 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.  (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images)

Another player who has stepped up for the Pelicans is Trey Murphy III, a forward known for his versatility. Murphy has shown great efficiency with a field goal percentage of 60 percent and has contributed an average of 20 points per game. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting creates opportunities for his teammates and keeps opposing defenses on their toes.


On the other side of the court, the Oklahoma City Thunder have also had some standout performers in their recent games. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a guard for the Thunder, has been leading his team with an average of 27 points per game. Gilgeous-Alexander's scoring ability combined with his playmaking skills make him a player to watch out for.


Jared Butler, another guard for the Thunder, has also made significant contributions to the team's success. With an average of 25 points per game, Butler has been a reliable scoring option for the Thunder. His ability to create his own shot and find open teammates has been crucial in their offensive strategy.


As the Pelicans and Thunder prepare to face each other, these top performers will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the game. The Pelicans will rely on Brandon Ingram's scoring prowess and Jonas Valanciunas' dominance in the paint to secure a victory. Meanwhile, the Thunder will look to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jared Butler to lead them to success.


Fans can catch all the action on April 13th at 1:30 AM UTC at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. The game will be broadcasted on ESPN, so make sure to tune in and witness these top performers battle it out on the court.

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