2 key factors that will lead to a Thunder Game 3 victory over Pelicans

Chet Holmgren must remains aggressive on offense

Holmgren exploded for 20 first-half points in Game 2, and the Thunder were +32 during his minutes. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams place an immense amount of pressure on New Orleans’ defense, so it’s incredibly difficult for the Pelicans to get stops when Holmgren thrives. 

He sits in an excellent position to exploit them too.

New Orleans gave up the fourth-most above-the-break three-point attempts and second-most wide-open triples this year largely due to Jonas Valanciunas’ deficiencies.

The veteran does not have the mobility to step out and contest pick-and-pops, while his ineffective rim protection often forces the defense to collapse and abandon shooters. 

Holmgren has secured 12 attempts from deep across the first two games, and he needs to stay aggressive with his shot. This will deter New Orleans from packing the paint against SGA, and Holmgren’s shot also acts as a zone buster – a strategy that the Pelicans deployed in Game 2.

If the Rookie of the Year candidate embraces a high-volume role and knocks down looks at his typical efficiency, then it’s unlikely that New Orleans will keep pace with OKC’s explosive offense.

It’s worth noting that the Thunder are 19-5 this season when Holmgren notches at least 20 points. That’s a 65-win pace!