Oklahoma City Thunder (57-25) vs. New Orleans Pelicans (49-33)
The Oklahoma City Thunder, with an impressive 57-25 record, are set to face the New Orleans Pelicans, who posted a solid 49-33 this season, in Game 4 of the NBA Playoffs’ first round. The Thunder, coming off a robust regular season, look to capitalize on their momentum in this critical matchup scheduled for Monday, April 29, 2024, at the Smoothie King Center. As the playoffs heat up, fans and bettors alike are turning their attention to this showdown, making it a highlight for the best online betting opportunities.
The Thunder have outperformed their opponents by 120.1 points per game on average. They have managed to keep up with the shooting percentage of 49.9% from the field. By acquiring these abilities, their three-point shooting prowess is reflected by averaging 13.3 three-pointers per game with 38.9% efficiency. Defensively, they present a strict stance with 42 rebounds per game and a dynamic stance that results in 8.5 steals and 6.6 blocks per game. The squad’s discipline is also evident in their relatively low turnover rate of 11.8 per game, which might make them favorable as the playoffs approach and every possession becomes critical.
As for the Pelicans, their offense is not trailing too much with an average of 115.1 points scored per game. Sometimes their field goal percentage is a bit lower at 48.6% but they are better in rebounding, 44 each game, due to their strong offensive rebounding, 10.4 offensive rebounds. This rebounding capacity could play a role against the Thunder on that night, because it might prolong the possessions and provide extra second-chance points, something that would be crucial in that playoff game that could be tight near the end.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New Orleans Pelicans Game Info
| When: | Monday, April 29, 2024, at 9:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Smoothie King Center |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG) vs. Zion Williamson (PF)
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder’s point guard in charge, can boast an incredible regular season performance. He achieved 30.1 points per game and 6.2 assists per game on average. His capacity to tear down the defenses and bury great points in as many as two boards per game, along with his talents for having steal balls, will enable him to get away with the big plays. Still, the way he is prone to turning the ball over 2.2 times per game will be something to watch, and the Pelicans’ defense will probably focus on this flaw.
Similarly, Zion Williamson has been one of the ace cards of the Pelicans, scoring 22.9 and taking 5.8 rebounds per game. Physical presence on the paint, and 5 assists per game only makes him one of those threats that can play on the several ends of the court. However, he had a great number of turnovers (2.8 per game) and did not block less, though this might be a worry to the Thunder’s aggressive offensive play.
The lineup of Gilgeous-Alexander and Williamson is all you’re looking for when watching the teams square off. Even in these two teams, there will be the players who bring strengths to their sides, and their players’ performance might very well determine the pace of the game and the outcome. Their ability to work effectively as a team, especially through a weakness of one member but also through the strength of another could be what determines the difference in their win.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With the betting odds yet to be determined, the focus remains on the game’s dynamics and how they might influence the betting lines once they are released. Given both teams’ recent performance and the high stakes of a playoff game, bettors should keep a keen eye on any movements in the spread and total.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
Thunder have won 5 out of their last 5 games, reflecting outstanding form prior to the playoffs. They have also managed to cover the spread in 4 out of these last 5 contests, showing that they can overachieve expectations. Nevertheless, the spread of 19-21 against them in the road games shows some unsteadiness on the road, which may affect the way betting decisions will be made during this game.
New Orleans Pelicans Betting Trends
Likewise, the Pelicans are boiling with a 4-1 record in their last 5 games. Even slightly less consistent with the spread in their last 5 games, with 3-2 record, but they performed stronger as a road games team with 23-17 against the spread, an essential aspect for good performance in the playoffs.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. New Orleans Pelicans 4/29/24 Betting Picks
Given the current form and statistics, the Thunder might have a slight edge, especially with their high-scoring offense. However, the Pelicans’ ability to rebound and capitalize on second chances should not be underestimated. This game is expected to be closely contested, potentially leaning towards a high-scoring affair, making the OVER a tempting pick.
For those looking for a free NBA Playoffs winning pick, keep an eye on the final odds but consider leaning towards the Thunder to cover the spread, assuming it remains reasonable. The key will be watching how the odds evolve based on the market’s reaction to these teams’ recent performances and any upcoming injury reports.
