New Orleans Pelicans vs Oklahoma City Thunder Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 26/03/2024, 07:30  by Devesh Jaganath in NBA Predictions

The Oklahoma City Thunder will travel to the Smoothie King Center to face the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA on Tuesday night. The hosts are 44-27 and fourth in the Western Conference, while the visitors are 49-21 and second in the Conference standings. 

The Oklahoma City Thunder endured one of their most lopsided losses of the season with a 25-point deficit against Milwaukee on Sunday. That defeat marked their largest losing margin since their 35-point loss to the Mavericks on February 10 and consequently pushed them out of the Western Conference lead. Meanwhile, the defending champions, the Denver Nuggets, capitalized on the opportunity, moving half a game ahead of the Thunder. Despite the loss, Josh Giddey showcased an impressive performance, leading the team with 19 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists, while Jalen Williams contributed 18 points. The Thunder currently rank as the league's fourth-highest scoring team, averaging 120.3 points per game, which is 9.9 points more than the 110.4 points allowed by the Pelicans. Defensively, they concede an average of 112.9 points per game, placing them 12th in the league. Lu Dort suffered a head injury during Sunday's game and is a doubt for this match. 

The New Orleans Pelicans ended their road trip with a solid 114-101 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Sunday. Zion Williamson led the charge with an outstanding performance, notching 36 points, seven rebounds, and six assists on an impressive 13 of 14 shooting, while CJ McCollum contributed 23 points. This marks the third and final matchup between these teams for this season, with each team securing a win on the opponent's home court in previous encounters. The Pelicans are positioned well to secure a playoff berth, currently holding a four-win advantage over the sixth-placed Sacramento Kings. In terms of scoring, the Pelicans rank 13th in the NBA, averaging 115.7 points per game, while the Oklahoma City Thunder are 13th in points allowed per game, conceding 112.9 points on average. Defensively, they perform well, allowing 110.4 points per outing, ranking eighth in the NBA. Unfortunately, Brandon Ingram and Dyson Daniels are ruled out for the upcoming matchup.