The 2024 NBA Playoffs are in full swing, and one of the most exciting matchups in the Western Conference first-round features the New Orleans Pelicans facing off against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder. Let’s dive into the details of this thrilling series.
Regular NBA Season Recap
During the regular NBA season, the Thunder secured the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference, while the Pelicans clinched the eighth seed. The Thunder, led by their dynamic duo of point guard Chris Harris and forward Marcus Turner, showcased their dominance on both ends of the court. Meanwhile, the Pelicans, anchored by center Anthony Davis and rookie sensation Jalen Green, fought hard to secure their playoff berth.
Key Players to Watch
- Chris Harris (Oklahoma City Thunder): Harris is a scoring machine, averaging 30 points per game during the regular season. His ability to create shots and distribute the ball makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
- Anthony Davis (New Orleans Pelicans): Davis is a force in the paint, known for his shot-blocking, rebounding, and scoring. He’ll be crucial for the Pelicans’ success in this series.
- Jalen Green (New Orleans Pelicans): The rookie sensation has been turning heads all season. His explosive scoring ability and athleticism make him a game-changer for the Pelicans.
Pelicans will face the Thunder in the opening round of the playoffs 🍿 pic.twitter.com/itxJQlou6g
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 20, 2024
Series Schedule
The first-round series between the Pelicans and the Thunder in the NBA kicks off with Game 1 on Sunday, April 21, at 9:30 p.m. ET. Here’s the full schedule:
- Game 1: Pelicans @ Thunder, Sunday, April 21, 9:30 p.m. ET (TNT)
- Game 2: Pelicans @ Thunder, Wednesday, April 24, 9:30 p.m. ET (TNT)
- Game 3: Thunder @ Pelicans, Saturday, April 27, 3:30 p.m. ET (TNT)
- Game 4: Thunder @ Pelicans, Monday, April 29 (TBD)
Predictions and Analysis
The Thunder enter the series as heavy favorites, but the Pelicans won’t go down without a fight. Expect high-scoring games, intense battles in the paint, and clutch performances from both teams. If the Pelicans can slow down Harris and find ways to exploit the Thunder’s defense, they have a chance to pull off an upset.
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