Thunder vs Pelicans Prediction: Surging OKC Favored to Hand Winless New Orleans Another Loss

The Oklahoma City Thunder are chasing history. They can start the season 7-0 with a win on Sunday. The New Orleans Pelicans are their opponents, desperate for their first victory. Tipoff is at 3:30 p.m. ET at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.

According to Reuters, the Thunder are heavy 11.5-point favorites. This reflects their dominant start and the Pelicans’ early-season struggles. New Orleans is still searching for answers after a heartbreaking buzzer-beater loss to the Clippers.

Thunder Defense Powers Undefeated Start

The defending champions have not missed a beat. Reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is leading the charge. He is averaging over 34 points per game on efficient shooting.

Even with key players injured, the team’s identity remains. Oklahoma City currently has the best defensive rating in the entire NBA. Their strong defense has compensated for early three-point shooting woes.

Pelicans Face Uphill Battle for First Win

New Orleans finds itself in a deep 0-5 hole. The team ranks near the bottom of the league in both offensive and defensive efficiency. This combination has made winning incredibly difficult.

The Pelicans have individual talent. Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy III have posted solid numbers. However, the team has failed to execute as a unit, especially in clutch moments.

Recent history heavily favors the Thunder. Oklahoma City swept all four games against New Orleans last season. The Thunder have won ten consecutive matchups against their Western Conference foe.

The Thunder vs Pelicans prediction points to a clear favorite. Oklahoma City’s stifling defense and home-court advantage should prove too much for the struggling Pelicans to overcome.

Info at your fingertips-

What is the spread for the Thunder vs Pelicans game?

The Oklahoma City Thunder are 11.5-point favorites. The point total is set at 229.5 points for the Sunday afternoon contest.

How have the Thunder started the season?

The Thunder are a perfect 6-0. They are one win away from matching their 7-0 start from last championship-winning season.

Why are the Pelicans struggling so much?

New Orleans is 0-5 because of poor play on both ends. The team ranks 28th in offensive rating and 29th in defensive rating.

Who is the best player for the Thunder?

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the reigning MVP. He is averaging 34.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game.

What was the result of the last Pelicans game?

The Pelicans lost on a buzzer-beater by Kawhi Leonard. This dropped them to an 0-5 record for the young season.