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Oklahoma City Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads the Charge Against New Orleans Pelicans in Crucial Showdown

The Oklahoma City Thunder are set to face off against the New Orleans Pelicans in a highly anticipated matchup at the Smoothie King Center. Both teams are looking to secure a victory and improve their standings in the Western Conference.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 24: Jonas Valanciunas #17 of the New Orleans Pelicans handles the ball 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 Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images)

In their previous three games, the Oklahoma City Thunder showcased their dominance, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the way. Gilgeous-Alexander, playing as a guard, has been exceptional on both ends of the court. In his last game, he scored an impressive 33 points, dished out 5 assists, and grabbed 3 rebounds. His shooting percentages have been outstanding, with a field goals percentage of 68%, two-point percentage of 71%, and three-point percentage of 60%. He has also been a defensive force, recording 2 steals and showcasing his versatility.


Joining Gilgeous-Alexander in his stellar performance is Jaylin Williams, who plays as a forward for the Thunder. Williams has been consistent throughout the previous games, contributing to both offense and defense. He has averaged 8 points, 1 assist, and 2 rebounds per game. His shooting percentages have been impressive as well, with a field goals percentage of 75% and a three-point percentage of 100%.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 24: Trey Murphy III #25 of the New Orleans Pelicans shoots the ball 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)

On the other side of the court, the New Orleans Pelicans will be relying on their star player Brandon Ingram to lead them to victory. Ingram has been a key contributor for the Pelicans in their recent games. In his last game against the Sacramento Kings, he scored 18 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. His shooting percentages have been solid, with a field goals percentage of 50% and free throws percentage of 100%.


Another player to watch out for on the Pelicans' roster is Jonas Valanciunas, who plays as a center. Valanciunas has been a dominant force in the paint, averaging 15 points and 7 rebounds per game. His field goals percentage stands at an impressive 57%, showcasing his efficiency on offense.


OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 24: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder shoots a free throw 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)

Based on their recent performances, it is clear that the Oklahoma City Thunder have the upper hand going into this matchup. However, the New Orleans Pelicans have proven to be a resilient team and will not go down without a fight. With both teams hungry for a win, this game promises to be an intense battle.


Fans can catch all the action live on TNT, BSOK, and BSNO. The game is scheduled for April 27th at 2:30 PM CST at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. Don't miss out on what is sure to be an exciting showdown between these two Western Conference rivals.

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