OKC Thunder delivers statement win vs. Pelicans – player grades
The OKC Thunder utilized hot perimeter shooting and clutch time defense to defeat the New Orleans Pelicans. Player grades offer insight into the victory.
After suffering their worst loss of the season to the Pelicans the OKC Thunder avenged that loss in the clubs’ second meeting via a highly entertaining match.
This game had everything a fan could wish for with the young core stepping up, the offense clicking particularly from deep, and a dramatic finish requiring the Thunder to summon their best defense to stave off the charging Pelicans.
That former fan favorite Steven Adams netted his first career triple-double was a sweet bow for Thunder Nation who enjoyed witnessing the big man’s achievement (especially since OKC got the win).
110. 69. Final. 111. 149
OKC Thunder delivers a statement game win versus Pelicans
It wasn’t always pretty or well-executed but there were signs of what this young OKC Thunder squad will morph into over the next few years. After losing 80-113 in the first meeting between the clubs the Thunder stepped up to avenge that loss and served notice this isn’t your ordinary tanking squad.
Like the first game, the Pelicans jumped on the Thunder early taking the first quarter 34-26 and took a five-point lead into halftime.
Unlike the first match, however, the perimeter shot stayed hot in the second half for OKC while Darius Bazley gave notice that he’ll be a vital part of the Thunder foundation.
Bazley scored 11 consecutive points to start the third quarter giving the Thunder the lead. Cornerstone Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was vital to keeping OKC ahead while veterans Mike Muscala, George Hill, and Al Horford all delivered vital contributions to help secure the win.
Perhaps this wasn’t a typical statement win but there are lots of areas to point to as to why it merits that hat tip. Entering clutch time the Thunder held a 97-96 lead but Lonzo Ball scored and added a free throw to cap a 12-0 run and nudge the Pelicans ahead 99-97.
Most rebuilding clubs would shrink in this situation and succumb to the pressure but SGA with the help of vets Hill and Horford refused to lose.
With that, I give you the player grades from the match.