Oklahoma City Thunder vs
New Orleans PelicansPredictions & Preview

Oklahoma City Thunder Look to Dominate New Orleans Pelicans in Season Finale showdown

The Oklahoma City Thunder (67-14) will be aiming to end the regular season on a high note as they take on the New Orleans Pelicans (21-60) at Smoothie King Center on Sunday afternoon at 3:30 PM ET. In their last games, the Thunder defeated Utah 145-111 while the Pelicans suffered a 153-104 loss to Miami. Oklahoma City has a strong record against New Orleans, winning 9 out of their last 10 matchups. The Thunder are favored to win with the current line at -12. Stay tuned to see which team comes out on top in this Thunder vs. Pelicans prediction.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Thunder -700 | Pelicans +520
• Spread: Thunder -12 (-110) | Pelicans +12 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 235 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Oklahoma City will win straight-up is 88%.

Oklahoma City vs New Orleans Stats

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Oklahoma City Thunder have had a remarkable season, setting a franchise record in wins and securing the top overall seed heading into the playoffs. With three straight wins and a 3-0 lead over the Pelicans in their season series, they look to continue their momentum and secure a series sweep on Sunday. The Thunder boast impressive offensive stats, averaging 120.6 points per game and making 56% of their field goals and 45.3% of their three-pointers in their last game. They are also strong defensively, leading the league in defensive efficiency and allowing opponents to make 43.6% of their field goals and 34.5% of their three-pointers. Several key players are questionable for the upcoming game. With a power ranking of 2, the Thunder are ranked 4th in offense and 3rd in defense, with impressive shooting percentages and rebounding numbers. They have been dominant on both ends of the court this season.

New Orleans Pelicans Analysis

The New Orleans Pelicans have struggled this season, currently on a six-game losing streak as they approach the end of their season. They will face the Thunder on Sunday in an attempt to break their losing streak and avoid a sweep. The Pelicans average 110 points per game, with Jamal Cain leading the team with 25 points in their last game. Defensively, they are giving up 119.3 points per game and are ranked 29th in defensive efficiency in the league. Several players are listed as questionable for the upcoming game due to injuries. Despite their struggles, the Pelicans have a power ranking of 26 and rank 25th in offense, scoring an average of 109.95 points per game. On defense, they are ranked 26th, allowing an average of 119.31 points per game. Overall, the Pelicans have a record of 21-60 and have had success against the Thunder in their previous matchups. They have room for improvement in field goal and three-point shooting percentages, rebounding, and defensive statistics.

Oklahoma City Thunder poised to dominate New Orleans Pelicans in upcoming matchup

The Oklahoma City Thunder have demonstrated impressive road performance, winning nine of their last 10 away games, while the New Orleans Pelicans have struggled at home, losing six of their last nine games. The Thunder's strong shooting performance, making over 52% of their shots and 45% of their three-pointers in their recent games, gives them an advantage over the Pelicans, who have shot 43% and 35% respectively. Furthermore, Oklahoma City excels in free-throw shooting, with over 81% accuracy, and in rebounding, averaging more than 10 offensive rebounds per game. Their low turnover rate of less than 10 per game and strategic defense contribute to their success. In contrast, the Pelicans have allowed over 136 points per game in their last three matches, with opponents shooting over 53%. Given these factors, it is reasonable to expect the Thunder to outperform the Pelicans. Consequently, it is advisable to consider Oklahoma City covering the spread in this matchup.

Sources: [ 1 ] [ 2 ]