OKC got their scare game out of the way and they should do better in this game. The coach will make adjustments in this game to compensate for their shortcomings that were evident in game 1. The Pelicans did a good job covering Shai in a slower paced game but this second game will have a different feel to it. The OKC like to play at a faster pace and they should dictate the pace in this game. With the jitters out of the way, they will be focused and will concentrate on getting out to a big lead with their potent offense by freeing up passing lanes for Shai. The Pelicans did a good job in that game defending the perimeter and the rim as the Thunder’s scorers did not put up the points like they usually do, and they all could have had a better game. It seemed like the Pelicans threw everything they had at the Thunder in that game, despite being with Zion, and having played all those extra games in the play-in, they didn’t seem tired as they slowed down the pace and kept the game close. But that energy from New Orleans won’t be here in this second game, and even with Ingram in there in place of Zion, he still isn’t 100% healthy and the Thunder will limit their fast break opportunities and second chance looks and do a better job defending the paint. This seems like a let down spot for the Pelicans too as they haven’t really had a good rest period to replenish and get healthy, and it catches up with them in this spot. OKC had a winning record against this team all season and that was with Zion in the line up. Now with all the negatives the Pelicans face, this is the game that OKC fires up the offense and covers the game as everyone will shoot better and play their best game.

Best bet: lay the points with Oklahoma City.