Red-Hot Thunder Host Struggling Pelicans in Conference Clash

The Western Conference’s top team meets its bottom dweller as the Oklahoma City Thunder (best record in the NBA) take on the New Orleans Pelicans, who are reeling from an eight-game losing streak.

Despite their contrasting fortunes, both teams are carefully managing the return of key players, making Monday’s game an intriguing matchup.

Thunder Easing Chet Holmgren Back

After missing nearly three months with a pelvic fracture, Chet Holmgren returned Friday and logged 22 minutes, contributing four points, five rebounds, four blocks, and two steals in a 121-109 win over Toronto.

He sat out Saturday’s win over Memphis but is expected to play against New Orleans.

“We have plans, but they’re not rigid,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said. “Some of this is watching how he responds and how he feels.”

Holmgren echoed that sentiment:

Pelicans Still Managing Zion Williamson’s Minutes

New Orleans’ Zion Williamson is putting up huge numbers, but his minutes remain limited following his hamstring injury.

On Saturday, Williamson exploded for 40 points on 16-of-21 shooting, along with four rebounds, four assists, and two steals in just 28 minutes.

“He’s a monster,” Pelicans coach Willie Green said. “His ability to get to the basket and create for himself and others is elite.”

Green hinted that Zion’s minutes restriction might last the rest of the season, a factor that could impact New Orleans’ ability to snap their skid.

Key Matchup: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Zion Williamson

While Holmgren and Williamson have yet to play against each other this season, the Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has torched the Pelicans, averaging 30 points in their two meetings Meanwhile, Jalen Williams has been just as lethal, posting 29 points per game in those matchups.

Can the Pelicans End Their Losing Streak?

The Thunder have won eight straight vs. New Orleans, including last season’s first-round playoff sweep.

New Orleans will also be without trade deadline additions Bruce Brown and Kelly Olynyk, who are set to join the team after this four-game road trip.

With Luguentz Dort (back spasms) and Cason Wallace (shoulder) out for OKC, the Pelicans might have an opportunity to exploit the Thunder’s weakened perimeter defense.

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Tip-Off:

• Location: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City
• Time: Monday, 7:00 PM ET

Can the Thunder continue their dominance, or will Zion and the Pelicans finally break their losing streak?