Oklahoma City Thunder (57-25) vs. New Orleans Pelicans (49-33)
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New Orleans Pelicans Game 3 4/27/24 – The Oklahoma City Thunder, boasting a stellar 57-25 record, face off against the formidable New Orleans Pelicans, who ended the season at 49-33, in what promises to be a thrilling NBA Playoffs 1st Round Game 3 showdown. Scheduled for April 27, 2024, at the Smoothie King Center, this matchup catches the eye not just for the skilled play expected on court but as a focus of paid predictions, with both teams showing remarkable form leading up to this clash.
Oklahoma City Thunder has stood out as top-notch in the season with the highest points scored averagely having 120.1 points per game followed by a high field goal percentage of 49.9%. Their offensive competency is also behind by 13.3 average 3-point field goals made per game, as well as they aren’t defensively slacks as they have average of 8.5 steals and 6.6 blocks per game. With a versatile defensive game-plan that showed their success against the spread and in outright results, especially in their last few games, here’s looking towards their next game against their upcoming opponents.
From the other side the New Orleans Pelicans team leads this game with 115.1 points per game. Though slightly below Thunder, this team has never ceased to shoot consistently, which is seen as a 48.6% field goal percentage and also a 44 rebounds per game leading the statistic. This way the statistics emphasize a team that can control the paint for periods long enough to earn extra points and also to withstand the opponents defensive pressure on rebounds.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New Orleans Pelicans Game 3 4/27/24 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, April 27, 2024, at 3:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Smoothie King Center |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG) vs. Brandon Ingram (SF)
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a point guard of the Thunder, has become a central figure of the team in terms of offense with an average of 30.1 points during 75 matches of the season as a proof of the team’s reliance on him. He is able to perform equally well in distributing the ball earning him leads in 6.2 assists for one game look. Particularly his agility and speed of scoring can be the match of the moment bringing Pelicans’ defense down to resounding defeat.
Brandon Ingram, the Pelicans’ Small Forward, is in the opposite corner, with an annual average of 20.8 points with 5.7 assists per game. It is led by his pride of playmaking, film making and scoring, which make him very dangerous in mid-range and even far reaches. Additionally, Ingram’s height and versatility give him leverage in the game such as scoring, defending crucial plays.
When these two principal players come up against each other, it will be seen whether Gilgoeus-Alexander’s drive to the basket can overcome Ingram’s defense. Not only will they give the game their contribution by combining youthfulness and vigor, but also they will decide about the game’s result.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With current betting odds pending, insights into trends suggest a closely contested matchup. The Thunder’s recent form makes them slight favorites, but the Pelicans’ resilience at home cannot be underestimated.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
The Thunder are 5-0 in the last 5 of their contests. They have simultaneously proved to have consistency as well as an ability to cover spreads, because of which they are no worse than 4-1 against the spread in this period. Being great on the road, even slightly less (19-21 against the spread), highlights the fact they can perform under the stress.
New Orleans Pelicans Betting Trends
The Pelicans had also played well in the last 5 games, won 4 games and failed to win in one of them. While on the road they acquired a 23-17 match-up record against the spread which brings in light their competitive nature even in unfamiliar circumstances.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New Orleans Pelicans 4/27/24 Betting Picks
Given the Thunder’s explosive offense and the Pelicans’ solid home record, the betting outlook remains balanced. My final thoughts lean slightly towards the Thunder, given their recent unbeaten streak and higher scoring averages. The key will be their ability to manage the game tempo and exploit their 3-point shooting prowess.
For those looking for top NBA Playoffs free picks, considering an over on total points could be wise, given both teams’ propensity to score heavily and their recent trends in surpassing total points expectations.
Free Pick and Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder 118, New Orleans Pelicans 112.