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Oklahoma City Thunder vs New Orleans Pelicans Betting Preview
The Oklahoma City Thunder visit the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center in NBA Cup play. Oklahoma City enters at 13-1, riding a five-game defensive surge, while New Orleans sits at 2-11 under interim coach James Borrego. Bettors will weigh the Thunder’s elite defense against the Pelicans’ attempt to build momentum at home.
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Line Movement and Odds
- Thunder Spread: -17.5 (-112)
- Pelicans Spread: +17.5 (-111)
- Thunder MoneyLine: -1977
- Pelicans MoneyLine: +1004
- Total: 226.5
Oklahoma City opened as a heavy road favorite, reflecting their dominance and New Orleans’ struggles. See full NBA odds for market movement.
Matchup Breakdown
Oklahoma City Thunder Outlook
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 33 in the win over Charlotte, while Chet Holmgren added 25 points and 8 rebounds. The Thunder rank 5th in scoring (121.6 ppg) and lead the league in free throw percentage (86.1%). Defensively, they allow just 106.2 points per game, best in the NBA, and hold opponents to 41.7% shooting. Their balance of elite offense and defense makes them overwhelming favorites.
New Orleans Pelicans Outlook
Trey Murphy III scored 20 with 8 rebounds in the loss to Golden State, while rookie Jeremiah Fears continues to impress with double-digit scoring streaks. The Pelicans lead the league in blocks (2.8 per game) and rank 2nd in limiting two-point attempts, showing defensive potential. However, their offense averages just 108.2 points per game, making consistency their biggest challenge.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
The Thunder must continue leveraging Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring and Holmgren’s interior presence to dominate both ends. The Pelicans need Murphy and Fears to provide scoring while their defense disrupts Oklahoma City’s rhythm. Execution and shooting efficiency will determine whether New Orleans can keep this competitive.
Injuries / Availability
Oklahoma City has no major new injuries reported. For full player status, check the Thunder injury report.
New Orleans lists multiple rotation players as day-to-day. See the Pelicans injury page for latest updates.
Environment
The game tips at Smoothie King Center, where New Orleans is 1-6 at home. Oklahoma City is 6-1 on the road, thriving in hostile environments. Expect pace to favor the Thunder’s defensive control, while the Pelicans rely on energy from their home crowd to stay close.
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Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Thunder 124, Pelicans 104
- Best Bet: Thunder -17.5
Oklahoma City’s elite defense and balanced scoring point to a comfortable cover. - Total: Under 226.5
Our model projects 228 points, but the Pelicans’ offensive struggles lean toward the under.
The Thunder’s dominance should continue, with their defense and efficiency overwhelming New Orleans. Expect a decisive win that trends under the total.
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