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Pelicans' Flight Grounded by Thunder's Defensive Storm

The New Orleans Pelicans, with a record of 3-9, faced off against the Oklahoma City Thunder, who boasted a 10-2 record, in a game that ended with the Pelicans scoring 88 points to the Thunder's 106. The match took place at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City and saw both teams battling fiercely through four quarters.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - NOVEMBER 13: Yves Missi #21 of the New Orleans Pelicans dunks the ball during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on November 13, 2024 at Paycom Center 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 Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

Key Highlights from the Game


The Pelicans started strong, leading by as much as 12 points during the game. However, their advantage was short-lived as they struggled to maintain their momentum throughout the match. The team's overall shooting percentage was just 40 percent from the field and an even lower 24 percent from beyond the arc. Despite these challenges, New Orleans managed to dominate on rebounds with a total of 70 compared to Oklahoma City's 40.


Brandon Ingram stood out for the Pelicans with his team-high of 18 points along with six assists and six rebounds. However, his performance was marred by eight turnovers which contributed to New Orleans' total of 24 for the game. Yves Missi also made notable contributions with a double-double consisting of ten points and ten rebounds.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - NOVEMBER 13:  Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder shoots the ball during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on November 13, 2024 at Paycom Center 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 defense, Trey Jemison III showcased his skills by blocking two shots while also adding six points and eight rebounds to his stat line. Despite these individual efforts, it wasn't enough to secure victory against a determined Thunder team.


Oklahoma City Thunder’s Winning Strategy


The Thunder capitalized on fast breaks scoring an impressive 34 fast break points compared to just two for New Orleans. Their defensive prowess was evident as they racked up seven blocks and sixteen steals over four quarters which translated into efficient counterattacks and easy baskets.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - NOVEMBER 13:  xxxxxx against the Oklahoma City Thunder on November 13, 2024 at Paycom Center 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)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led Oklahoma City with standout plays that kept them ahead for most of the game duration totaling over thirty-seven minutes in lead time compared to just under nine minutes for New Orleans. The home team’s ability to convert turnovers into scoring opportunities played a significant role in their win; they scored twenty-nine points off turnovers while limiting New Orleans’ conversion rate significantly lower at four points off turnovers.


Looking Ahead


The next challenge for New Orleans will be hosting Denver Nuggets at Smoothie King Center on November 15th at 8:00 PM EDT. Fans can catch this upcoming matchup live on Gulf Coast Sports or ALT TV networks ensuring they don’t miss any action from their favorite team.


As we look forward towards another exciting matchup featuring our beloved Pelicans facing off against Denver Nuggets soon after this tough loss; let us rally behind our team showing them unwavering support through thick and thin! Share this article across social media platforms encouraging fellow fans not only stay updated but also spread positive vibes around our community!

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