Thunder overwhelm Pelicans with offensive storm to take 2-0 lead

• When: Wednesday, April 24th at 9:30 PM EST
• Who: New Orleans Pelicans at Oklahoma City Thunder
• Where: Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, OK
• What: NBA Western Conference Playoffs game 2

The upcoming game between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Oklahoma City Thunder promises to be thrilling. On Wednesday, the Thunder will host the Pelicans in the NBA playoffs. 

After a tense Game 1, where the Thunder clinched a narrow victory to take a 1-0 lead in the series, both teams are gearing up for an intense showdown in Game 2. 

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Game Preview (Spread)

Here's a comprehensive betting preview for the much-anticipated matchup.

Moneyline
New Orleans Pelicans +7.5	-108	-110	-110
OKC Thunder -7.5	-112	-110	-110

In Game 1, the Pelicans made the Thunder sweat, pushing them to the limit despite Zion Williamson's absence. 

Led by standout performances from CJ McCollum and Trey Murphy III, the Pelicans showcased their resilience and defensive prowess, holding the Thunder to just 94 points. 

📊 Trey: 21 PTS (5 3s), 3 BLK
📊 CJ: 20 PTS/6 AST
📊 JV: 13 PTS/20 REB#Pelicans | @FDSportsbook pic.twitter.com/w9wZxQFmTK

— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) April 22, 2024

However, Brandon Ingram must step up in Williamson's absence to provide additional scoring support for McCollum and Murphy III.

New Orleans Pelicans To cover +7.5 points

-108

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On the other hand, the Thunder displayed nerves but ultimately held on for the win, relying on their perimeter play and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's leadership. 

As the second-youngest team in the NBA, the Thunder must counter the Pelicans' physicality, particularly in Williamson's absence.

The last time the Thunder had a chance to take a 2-0 lead in a playoff series was in 2013 during a first-round series against the Houston Rockets.

Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook were the stars leading the charge that time.

Now, the Thunder hope to repeat history and secure a 2-0 lead in their current playoff series against the New Orleans Pelicans.

OKC Thunder To cover -7.5 points

-112

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Total Points

Statistically, the Pelicans boast a strong defensive unit, ranking among the top teams in scoring defense, field goal percentage defense, and three-point percentage defense. 

In Game 1, their defensive efforts were commendable, holding the Thunder below their average scoring output.

Total Points
Over 212 Points	-110	-110	-105
Under 212 Points	-110	-110	-115

Offensively, the Pelicans have been solid throughout the season despite the setback of Williamson's injury. 

With multiple players, including Brandon Ingram and Trey Murphy III, averaging double digits in points, the Pelicans possess the firepower to challenge the Thunder.

In contrast, the Thunder have relied heavily on their potent offense, ranking among the top teams in scoring offense, field goal percentage, and three-point shooting. 

Led by Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder's offensive prowess will be crucial in Game 2 as they aim to improve their Game 1 performance.

When there’s a Shai, there’s a way 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/Ej17LHSOeC

— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) April 22, 2024

Defensively, the Thunder have been resilient, boasting a strong defensive unit that ranks among the top teams in scoring defense and field goal percentage defense. 

In Game 1, their defense proved pivotal in securing the narrow victory, highlighting their ability to step up in crucial moments.

Overall, Game 2 is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams eager to seize the series' momentum. 

While the Pelicans should not be underestimated, especially given their formidable defense, the Thunder's offensive firepower and defensive resilience provide them with the edge. 

Expect a tight game, but the Thunder are poised to clinch a narrow victory and take a 2-0 lead in the series as they head to New Orleans for Game 3.

Under 212 Points New Orleans Pelicans vs OKC Thunder

-110

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