New Orleans Pelicans vs
Oklahoma City ThunderPredictions & Preview

Eighth-seeded New Orleans set to face top-seeded Oklahoma City in Playoff Showdown in the Sooner State

In day two of the postseason, the eighth-seeded New Orleans team is set to face off against the top-seeded Oklahoma City team in a best-of-seven series in the Sooner State. New Orleans secured their spot by defeating Sacramento 105-98 at home, while Oklahoma City clinched the top seed in the West with a dominant 135-86 victory over Dallas. The Thunder holds a 42-32 advantage in the all-time regular season series and won two out of three meetings this season, including a 119-112 road win in their most recent matchup on March 26. This will be the first playoff series between the two teams. Oklahoma City is the betting favorite, opening at -8 with the current line at Oklahoma City -8.5.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Pelicans +290 | Thunder -355
• Spread: Pelicans +8.5 (-110) | Thunder -8.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 214.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Oklahoma City will win straight-up is 78%.

New Orleans vs Oklahoma City Stats

New Orleans Pelicans

New Orleans bounced back from a loss to the Lakers to secure the eighth seed in the Western Conference by defeating the Kings. The Pelicans finished the regular season with a 49-33 record, placing second in the Southwest Division. In their game against Sacramento, New Orleans had a strong offensive performance, shooting 51.8% from the field and outscoring the Kings in the second quarter to secure the win. Brandon Ingram led the team with 24 points, six rebounds, and six assists. Throughout the season, the Pelicans have shown consistency in scoring offense, rebounding, and assists, ranking 13th in the league in each category. Key players such as Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum have contributed significantly to the team's success. Despite Williamson's injury, the Pelicans have maintained a strong performance, ranking 15th in power rankings and displaying solid offensive and defensive statistics. Additionally, the team's field goal and three-point shooting percentages are among the top in the league.

Oklahoma City Thunder Analysis

The Oklahoma City Thunder finished the regular season strong, winning their final five games to claim the top spot in the Northwest Division and the Western Conference. They finished with a 57-25 record, tied with the Nuggets but winning the season series. In their final game against Dallas, the Thunder dominated, jumping out to an 11-0 lead and finishing with a 58-point victory. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the team with 15 points and six assists in the win. The Thunder are 3rd in the league in scoring offense, averaging 120.1 points per game, and are 11th in scoring defense, allowing 112.7 points per game. Key players include Jalen Williams, Josh Giddey, and Chet Holmgren. Oklahoma City has a clean injury report and looks to continue their success in the postseason. Check out our NBA Free picks for more information.

Pelicans Face Formidable Challenge Against Thunder in Playoffs After Securing Spot Without Zion Williamson

The New Orleans Pelicans secured a spot in the playoffs by defeating the Sacramento Kings, despite the absence of Zion Williamson. However, facing the dynamic Oklahoma City Thunder presents a formidable challenge for the Pelicans. Brandon Ingram's strong performance against the Kings was a key factor in New Orleans' victory, indicating that teams can thrive without a superstar player in certain games, as was seen with the Miami Heat. Moving forward, the Pelicans' ability to maintain consistent performance will be critical. The Thunder, although a young team, possess a high-scoring offense and a potential MVP candidate leading the way. With an impressive home record, Oklahoma City had the upper hand and emerged victorious in the series opener. This matchup will test the Pelicans' resilience and strategic approach to advance in the playoffs.

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