2 main factors that will lead to Thunder winning Game 2 vs Pelicans

Electricity crackles throughout the arena. Relentless, deafening waves of rolling thunder crash down onto the court as if Zeus himself is whipping the crowd into a frenzy. The only thing louder than the roars are the player's own beating hearts. In other words, OKC Thunder playoff basketball is back! 

Oklahoma City saw their first taste of playoff basketball in four years on Sunday night and rose to the occasion. They prevailed 94-92 over New Orleans in Game 1 and defended home-court. The exhilarating win included late-game heroics from Chet Holmgren and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who took over key possessions when it mattered most. 

Overall, SGA paced the Thunder with 28 points, while Holmgren recorded 15 points, 11 rebounds, and five blocks. Jalen Williams also had an excellent all-around impact, and Lu Dort frequently shut down New Orleans’ offensive actions. 

Oklahoma City now leads the series 1-0, and Game 2 will take place this Wednesday night. Although the Thunder kicked off the series on a high note, they were incredibly close to dropping the opening game and generally played far below their potential.

Mark Daigneault and company subsequently have plenty of adjustments to make for this second bout in the series on both ends of the court. 

Which areas need improvement? How can the Thunder’s offense avoid another lackluster performance? Check out two keys for a Thunder win in Game 2 below.