The Pelicans are a strong team at home, and even without Zion, the Thunder can’t let their guard down. Expect New Orleans to come out strong in the first two quarters as they try to not go down three games to none as they will be in desperation mode. Teams that are down 0-2 are dangerous and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Everyone on the Pelicans shot poorly in the last game while OKC’s five starters all put up double digit points. Ingram had a terrible game so he will step up his effort and get more points. McCollum should play better as he is not playing to his average of 24.5 points per game, and expect their role players and bench to play much better at home. However, interestingly the Pelicans were a better road team this season going 28-16 straight up as opposed to just 22-20 straight up at home, and they only went 21-21 against the spread at home. The Pelicans are also 1-6 against the spread at home in their last 7 home games. They are also 0-9 against the spread at home versus Oklahoma City. The Pelicans are 2-8 against the spread in the last three seasons off a road blowout loss of 20 points or more. On the flip side, OKC shot 59% overall so there might be some regression there, however, expect them to still have a good game, they are converting fast break points at a better percentage and they have played well in the paint and are a threat at the 3 point line. This team is still one of the best potent offensive scoring teams in the league that can also play defense well. OKC did great on the road this season where they still went 24-17 straight up. This team was also a staggering 49-14 when favored in a game this season straight up. OKC also won their two road games this season against New Orleans.This game may be more closely contested like game 1 for the first half, but expect OKC to pull away late in the fourth quarter to get the win and cover.

Best bet: lay the point with Oklahoma City.