Oklahoma City Thunder vs New Orleans Pelicans Prediction & Picks - NBA

Prediction published on 4/29/24, 3:12 AM  by Tyler Doty | Modified on 4/29/24 at 6:28 AM in NBA Picks

The Pelicans host the Thunder at the Smoothie King Center for Game 4 of the first round of the playoffs. Without Zion Williamson since the start of the playoffs, New Orleans finds itself in a difficult situation, trailing 3-0 in the series. Now with their backs against the wall, Willie Green's players have no choice but to respond to avoid imminent elimination. Williamson's injury has clearly impacted the Pelicans' performance. The pressure is at its peak for New Orleans, which must leave everything on the court to hope to reverse the trend and extend their playoff season.

OKC is dominating their series against the Pelicans, leading 3-0 in this first round of the playoffs. Under the leadership of Mark Diagneault, who was recently named Coach of the Year, the Thunder shows impressive cohesion and determination. With their comfortable lead, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and his teammates will look to conclude the series in Game 4 to quickly move to the next round and plan for the rest of the playoffs. Their mastery on the court and their effectiveness both in offense and defense make them formidable opponents for the Pelicans, who have still not managed to find a solution.