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OKC Thunder Surge to Seventh Consecutive Win Under Gilgeous-Alexander’s Command as Pelicans Remain Winless

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander guarded by rookie Jeremiah Fears

Key Takeaways:

  • Oklahoma City Thunder extended their unbeaten run to 7-0 on Sunday with a 137-106 win over the New Orleans Pelicans
  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 30 points and seven assists in just three quarters for Oklahoma City
  • The Pelicans dropped to 0-6 after the loss, despite Zion Williamson’s 20 points and nine rebounds

Match Overview

Oklahoma City Thunder maintained their flawless start to the season by overpowering the New Orleans Pelicans 137-106, notching their seventh consecutive victory. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 30 points and seven assists, all within only three quarters of play and 30 minutes on the court. His offensive prowess included making 8 of 14 field goal attempts and converting all 13 free throw opportunities. This dominant effort leaves the Pelicans still searching for their first win this campaign.

Statistical Highlights

TeamPoints ScoredField Goal %3PT FG Made/Attempted (%)Largest Lead
Oklahoma City Thunder13756%20/48 (41.7%)36
New Orleans Pelicans10643.8%16/40 (40%)3

Oklahoma City’s Depth Shines

Despite missing three starters from last year’s championship side – with Lu Dort absent due to illness, Chet Holmgren absent for a third consecutive game with a lower back sprain, and Jalen Williams yet to feature this season following right wrist surgery – Oklahoma City encountered little resistance. The Thunder produced an all-round team performance, with eight players recording double-digit points. Isaiah Hartenstein turned in a particularly notable showing, recording a double-double of 14 points and 14 rebounds, alongside eight assists.

The Thunder, who had begun the night ranked last in the NBA in three-point accuracy with a mark below 30%, displayed significant improvement by scoring 20 of their 48 attempts from long range at a 41.7% clip. Jaylin Williams matched his career best during the first half, hitting four three-pointers as Oklahoma City surged to a 75-52 advantage at the break.

Pelicans’ Struggles Continue

The Pelicans fell to 0-6 despite a 20-point, nine-rebound effort by Zion Williamson and an additional 19 points from Trey Murphy III. Rookie Jeremiah Fears, a former Oklahoma standout, added 16 points after receiving a warm ovation from the home crowd during the pre-game introductions.

Noteworthy Moments

In the fourth quarter, with the Thunder leading 114-90, Kevon Looney of the Pelicans was assessed a Flagrant-1 after making contact with Ajay Mitchell as he drove to the basket. Mitchell converted both free throws and subsequently scored a floater on the resulting possession, further extending the Thunder’s lead to 118-90.

Historical Context and Upcoming Fixtures

This latest victory constitutes Oklahoma City’s eleventh straight win over New Orleans and marks the first time since last season’s NBA title-winning campaign that the franchise has started 7-0. The Thunder join esteemed company as only the third team in league history to open consecutive seasons with a 7-0 record, alongside the Boston Celtics (1963-65) and the Houston Rockets (1993-95).

Looking ahead, the Thunder will visit the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday while the Pelicans are set to host the Charlotte Hornets on the same day.


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