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Can Oklahoma City Thunder Outmaneuver New Orleans Pelicans at Home?

As the Oklahoma City Thunder prepare to host the New Orleans Pelicans at Paycom Center, fans are eager to see if their team can capitalize on last season's trends and continue their upward trajectory. The Thunder's performance in the previous season was marked by a strong offensive presence, averaging 117.5 points per game with an impressive contribution from both inside and outside the arc.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - MARCH 26: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans handles the ball during the game  on March 26, 2024 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 Jonathan Bachman/NBAE via Getty Images)

The team's ability to convert opportunities into points was evident with a true shooting percentage and two-point percentage of one hundred percent, showcasing their efficiency in scoring. Their prowess in fast breaks also stood out, as they managed nearly six fast break points per game, indicating that they can turn defensive plays into quick scoring opportunities.


Defensively, the Thunder were aggressive but disciplined. Averaging 21 personal fouls per game suggests that while they played hard defense, they did not often put opponents on the line unnecessarily. With over eight steals and more than four blocks per game on average, Oklahoma City demonstrated a knack for disrupting opposing offenses and creating transition opportunities.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - MARCH 26: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans goes to the basket during the game on March 26, 2024 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 Jonathan Bachman/NBAE via Getty Images)

Rebounding has been another area of strength for the Thunder; pulling down approximately 44 rebounds per game provided them with numerous second-chance points while limiting opponents' opportunities.


However, turnovers were an area needing improvement; averaging over twelve turnovers a game could be costly against a team like the Pelicans who will look to exploit any mistakes.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - MARCH 26: Jalen Williams #8 of the Oklahoma City Thunder handles the ball during the game  on March 26, 2024 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 Jonathan Bachman/NBAE via Getty Images)

As we approach this matchup, it is crucial for Oklahoma City to maintain their offensive efficiency while tightening up ball security. Fans should expect an energetic contest where fast-paced offense and strategic defense play pivotal roles.


The showdown between these Western Conference rivals is scheduled for April 21st at 8:30 PM local time at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. The action can be caught live on TNT or BSOK networks – an encounter you won't want to miss!

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