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New Orleans Pelicans Look to Brandon Ingram for Redemption Against Oklahoma City Thunder at Home

The New Orleans Pelicans are gearing up for a high-stakes duel against the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Smoothie King Center. After a disappointing loss in their previous encounter, the Pelicans are seeking redemption and hoping to secure a victory on their home court.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 24: Herb Jones #5 of the New Orleans Pelicans drives to the basket during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round 1 Game 2 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2024 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 2024 NBAE (Photo by Martin McGrew/NBAE via Getty Images)

One player who will be crucial to the Pelicans' success is Brandon Ingram. The talented forward has been a standout performer for the team, consistently delivering impressive performances on both ends of the court. In the last three games, Ingram has averaged 18 points, 3 assists, and 4 rebounds per game. His shooting percentages have been solid, with a field goal percentage of 50% and a free throw percentage of 100%.


Ingram's exceptional performance came in the second game against the Sacramento Kings, where he scored 21 points, grabbed 4 rebounds, and dished out 2 assists. He showcased his versatility by shooting efficiently from both inside and outside the arc.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - APRIL 24:  Oklahoma City Thunder fans try to distract Brandon Ingram #14 of the New Orleans Pelicans while shooting a free throw during game two of the first round of the NBA playoffs at Paycom Center on April 24, 2024 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

However, Ingram is not alone in his quest for redemption. Jonas Valanciunas has been a force to be reckoned with in the paint, averaging an impressive double-double of 17 points and 9 rebounds per game over the last three games. His dominant presence on both ends of the court will be crucial in controlling the boards and protecting the rim against a strong Thunder lineup.


CJ McCollum has also been instrumental in orchestrating the Pelicans' offense. The skilled guard has averaged 13 points and 4 assists per game while providing valuable playmaking skills and floor spacing with his shooting ability.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 24: Luguentz Dort #5 of the Oklahoma City Thunder celebrates during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans during Round 1 Game 2 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2024 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 2024 NBAE (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images)

On the defensive end, Trey Murphy III has emerged as a key contributor for the Pelicans. The rookie forward has showcased his defensive prowess by recording multiple steals and blocks in each of the last three games.


While the focus is on redemption for the Pelicans, they cannot underestimate the Oklahoma City Thunder. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been a standout performer for the Thunder, averaging an impressive 25 points, 5 assists, and 3 rebounds per game over the last three games. His ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates will pose a significant challenge for the Pelicans' defense.


In addition to Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams has been a consistent contributor for the Thunder, averaging 15 points and 7 rebounds per game. His inside presence and rebounding ability will be crucial in battling against Valanciunas in the paint.


The upcoming game between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Oklahoma City Thunder promises to be an intense showdown. Both teams are hungry for victory, with the Pelicans seeking redemption and the Thunder aiming to maintain their momentum. Fans can catch all the action on TNT, BSOK, or BSNO on April 27th at 2:30 PM CST.

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