Opinion
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Will Oklahoma City Thunder Strike Down New Orleans Pelicans in Upcoming Encounter?

As the Oklahoma City Thunder prepare to host the New Orleans Pelicans at Paycom Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a captivating matchup. The Thunder have been on a roll, and their recent performances suggest that they could extend their winning ways.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 21:  Brandon Ingram #14 of the New Orleans Pelicans shoots the ball during the game  against the Oklahoma City Thunder during Round 1 Game 1 of the 2024 NBA Playoffs on April 21, 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)

In their last face-off against the Pelicans on April 22, OKC edged out a narrow victory with a final score of 94-92. It was an intense game where lead changes were frequent, but ultimately it was OKC's ability to maintain control during critical moments that secured them the win. The Thunder showcased their defensive prowess by limiting NOP to just 38 percent from the field and an even more paltry 28 percent from beyond the arc.


OKC's offense wasn't too shabby either; they managed to outscore NOP in fast break points (20-7) and points in paint (42-36), demonstrating their ability to capitalize on quick transitions and dominate inside scoring. With an assist-to-turnover ratio of 1.62, compared to NOP's 1.57, OKC also proved slightly more efficient in ball handling.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - APRIL 21: CJ McCollum #3 of the New Orleans Pelicans warms up before tipoff against the Oklahoma City Thunder in game one of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at the Paycom Center on April 21, 2024 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 Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Looking back further at OKC's performance against Dallas Mavericks on April 14 reveals an even more dominant side of this team – a staggering victory with a scoreline of 135-86 that left no questions about their offensive firepower or defensive solidity. Their bench depth shone through as well, contributing an impressive total of 85 points.


The key for OKC will be maintaining this level of play against NOP’s resilient squad which has shown tenacity throughout the season despite some ups and downs. While NOP did manage significant bench contributions and showed strength in rebounding during previous games, they'll need more than that to counteract OKC’s momentum.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA - APRIL 21: Herbert Jones #5 of the New Orleans Pelicans shoots the ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder in game one of the Western Conference First Round Playoffs at the Paycom Center on April 21, 2024 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 Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

With players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading charge for Oklahoma City Thunder alongside other key contributors who have been stepping up when it matters most - fans can expect another thrilling contest where every possession could swing momentum one way or another.


The upcoming game is scheduled for April 24 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City with tip-off set for 8:30 PM local time (Central Time Zone). Fans won’t want miss this action-packed event which will be broadcasted live on TNT and BSOK networks – mark your calendars!

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