Top-seed Oklahoma City Thunder clash with the New Orleans Pelicans, who secured their postseason following a play-in battle. Thunder is a heavy favorite in the series, but Ingram, McCollum and the boys have a bit different plans.
Before Betting on New Orleans Pelicans vs. OKC Thunder
Pelicans won’t have Zion in Game 1, and that’s a huge blow for them. But on the other hand, it’s nothing new when talking about Williamson and his health. But the good thing is that McCollum and Ingram look fine. They led the Pels to a 105-98 win over the Kings in the final play-in event.
Ingram had 24 points with six boards and assists each. CJ was slow, having only seven buckets, but Jonas Valanciunas stepped up, having 19 points and 12 boards. The bench was more than productive, delivering 34 points, all between three players: Nance Jr, Marshall, and Alvarado.
Thunder looks just fine. Otherwise, they wouldn’t win first place in the West. After an intense battle, they claimed the top seed with several victories at the end of the regular season. OKC played four in a row at home, triumphing in each, with the latest one against the Dallas Mavs, 135-86.
Gilgeous-Alexander leads the way with 30.1 points, but he also adds 6.2 assists per game, which is his new quality. Josh Giddey is the playmaker on the team, but Shai evolved into a dual threat because he can create positions for his teammates. Sophomore Jalen Williams is a huge surprise, with him averaging 19.1 points, 4.5 assists, and 4 boards. He, too, will be a challenge for the Pels.
New Orleans Pelicans vs. OKC Thunder Game 1 Offshore Betting Odds
| Offshore Sportsbook | Moneyline | Total | Spread |
|---|---|---|---|
| BetOnline | Pelicans (3.90) | Thunder (1.28) | 215.5 | Pelicans +8.5 (1.91) | Thunder -8.5 (1.91) |
| MyBookie | Pelicans (3.74) | Thunder (1.28) | 215.5 | Pelicans +8.5 (1.91) | Thunder -8.5 (1.91) |
| BetUS | Pelicans (3.85) | Thunder (1.27) | 216 | Pelicans +8.5 (1.91) | Thunder -8.5 (1.91) |
| SportsBetting.ag | Pelicans (3.90) | Thunder (1.28) | 215.5 | Pelicans +8.5 (1.91) | Thunder -8.5 (1.91) |
| XBet | Pelicans (3.74) | Thunder (1.28) | 215.5 | Pelicans +8.5 (1.91) | Thunder -8.5 (1.91) |
OKC might have some rust compared to New Orleans because they had to wait for the play-in to end. Still, that’s not a reason to pick the guests, who, despite excellent players, aren’t favorites here. OKC’s home performances are superb, and they should neat the Pels tonight.
