NBA 2024-2025: New Orleans Pelicans vs Oklahoma City Thunder Prediction
New Orleans Pelicans
Home Team
19.4%
109.3 pts
VS
Oklahoma City Thunder
Away Team
80.6%
118.6 pts
Key Prediction Insights
The Oklahoma City Thunder are predicted to secure a victory over the New Orleans Pelicans with an 80.6% probability. The expected scoreline is 118.6 to 109.3 in favor of the Thunder. The Pelicans' starting five includes Elfrid Payton, Jose Alvarado, Jamal Cain, Keion Brooks Jr., and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl. Meanwhile, the Thunder will start with Aaron Wiggins, Isaiah Joe, Dillon Jones, Jaylin Williams, and Kenrich Williams.
Game Analysis
The Pelicans have been struggling recently, coming off three consecutive losses against the Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, and Brooklyn Nets, with their defense conceding over 136 points on average. The team will rely on Jose Alvarado, who has the highest offensive rating of 110.2 among their starters, to spark the offense. However, their defensive struggles are highlighted by high defensive ratings, including Keion Brooks Jr.'s 125.5, which could be a concern against a high-scoring Thunder team.
On the other hand, the Thunder are riding high on a three-game winning streak, showcasing impressive offensive performances. They dismantled the Utah Jazz, Phoenix Suns, and Los Angeles Lakers with an average winning margin of 21 points. With Jaylin Williams leading with a stellar offensive rating of 130.2 and a robust defensive rating of 105.8, the Thunder's starting unit seems well-balanced and poised to exploit the Pelicans' defensive vulnerabilities.
Final Prediction
The Oklahoma City Thunder are poised to capitalize on their recent momentum and the Pelicans' defensive frailties, giving them a significant edge in this matchup. Fans should keep an eye on the Thunder's offensive execution, particularly how Jaylin Williams and Isaiah Joe can influence the game's tempo and scoring.