The Oklahoma City Thunder overcame an early setback to overpower the New Orleans Pelicans 106-85 in a pivotal Game 3 on Saturday. With this win, the Thunder now holds a 3-0 advantage in their first-round NBA playoff series.
The game started with a tense moment when Thunder forward Jalen Williams suffered an injury after colliding with Brandon Ingram.
Williams, who took a forearm to the face while attempting a floater, was momentarily down but returned to play a crucial part in the victory.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Despite the early incident, Williams showcased his skill by contributing significantly in the second half, including two critical 3-pointers during a key 9-0 run. He ended the game with 21 points, joining teammates Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey, who scored 24 and 21 points respectively.
“Dub’s very talented,” praised Gilgeous-Alexander about Williams. “He was clearly big tonight, very impressive and nothing we’re not used to.”
The Thunder displayed a formidable defense throughout the game, holding the Pelicans to 92 points or less for the third consecutive game. This defensive prowess, combined with a 47.2% accuracy from beyond the arc, allowed the Thunder to maintain a double-digit lead for most of the second half.
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault commended his team’s effort, saying, “Our physicality again, our defense and focus on that end of the floor was really, really good, made them earn everything. And I thought that set the tone.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Despite missing their star forward Zion Williamson due to a hamstring injury, the Pelicans struggled to find their rhythm. New Orleans improved slightly in their 3-point shooting but still only managed 28.1% from the field. Turnovers also plagued the Pelicans, with 21 mishaps leading to 23 Thunder points.
As the Thunder fans chanted in support, the Pelicans’ home crowd began to dwindle, reflecting the shifting momentum. Pelicans coach Willie Green remained optimistic, however, urging his team to focus on the next game.
“It’s not over,” stated Green. “Look, we’ve got another game here at home and we’re not going to fix all of our issues tonight. Go home, have a good meal and we’ll come back (Sunday) and practice and go over what we need to do and get ready for the next game.”
With history against them—no NBA team has ever overturned a 3-0 series deficit—the Pelicans face a daunting challenge ahead.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
The Thunder, on the other hand, are determined not to relent, with Giddey emphasizing the importance of maintaining their drive: “You can’t take your foot off the gas no matter what the lead is in a series,” he remarked.
The Thunder’s victory was a testament to their growing confidence and cohesiveness, setting the stage for a potentially decisive Game 4.
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