The primary-round collection between the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder and the New Orleans Pelicans is gearing up for Recreation 3 at Smoothie King Heart following a 2-0 lead by the Thunder. The Pelicans, who had a powerful 28-14 highway document through the common season, have been unable to safe wins within the opening two highway video games in Oklahoma Metropolis. With two video games of knowledge now accessible, the collection outlook has modified considerably from earlier than Recreation 1.
One key issue that will impression the rest of the collection is the aggressiveness of Brandon Ingram. The Pelicans’ high scorer has struggled within the first two video games, averaging solely 15 factors per sport on 37% capturing. He’ll have to be extra aggressive and assertive as a scorer to assist flip the collection round for New Orleans. One other key participant to look at is Thunder rookie Chet Holmgren, who has dominated his matchup in opposition to Pelicans’ middle Jonas Valanciunas together with his flooring spacing skills.
The Pelicans’ struggles with leap capturing have been evident within the collection, with the staff capturing poorly from past the arc and within the midrange. They might want to enhance their capturing in the event that they hope to keep away from a sweep by the Thunder. Turnovers and transition play have additionally been vital elements within the collection, with Oklahoma Metropolis controlling the tempo of the sport and capitalizing on turnovers to generate quick break factors.
Recreation 3 is ready to happen on Saturday at Smoothie King Heart, with no indication that Pelicans’ star Zion Williamson will return through the collection. Because the Pelicans look to make a comeback, they might want to tackle their capturing woes, turnovers, and transition protection. The Thunder will intention to keep up their momentum and proceed to push the tempo of the sport to safe a collection victory. The upcoming video games at Smoothie King Heart will likely be essential in figuring out the result of this first-round matchup.