Oklahoma City Thunder outclass New Orleans Pelicans by heavy win of 106-85

Oklahoma City Thunder had the better of the New Orleans Pelicans in the latest NBA 2023/24 season. The home side trashed the visiting side by a margin of 106-85. In the process, the home side claimed a lead of 3-0 in the series. It would have given them a lot of confidence considering the margin of win. Throughout the game, they were ruthless.

Jalen Williams and Josh Giddey were the key performers for the home side who claimed 21 points each.  Luguentz Dort claimed 12 points for his side. If they manage to win their upcoming match, it will be a complete sweep in the Western Conference for the Thunder. In the first half, Oklahoma had the upper hand. They dominated the game in the first quarter.

However, the home side made a brilliant comeback and took the game away from the Pelicans. Three players starred for the visiting side. Star player CJ McCollum scored 16 points and Herb Jones claimed 15 points. While Trey Murphy III was handy with 10 points, Brandon Ingram was the best performer with 19 points. However, it was not enough to beat the home side at Smoothie King Center. 

'We just try to clear the hurdle that's in front of us' - Mark Daigneault

After the win, Thunder coach Mark Daigneault came to the press conference. He claimed that clearing a hurdle ahead of them is the primary goal. He claimed that it has been their focus all the time and gives them confidence. "I think (the Thunder players) have uncommon maturity, poise, competitiveness, and togetherness -- and that gives you confidence when you're under stress and when you're on the road," said Mark. 

Josh Giddey, the key performer for the home side, claimed that their defense was brilliant on the night. He felt that 8-5 points in a playoff game translates to a par score. "We hang our hats on that end of the floor (defense). We've got great defenders on this team that execute. Eight-five points in a playoff game is a very winnable score," said Giddey in the press conference.