OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER AT NEW ORLEANS PELICANSWednesday, Dec. 21
Why it’s on the list
The Pelicans and Thunder appeared to have the makings of a budding rivalry during the 2014-15 season, when they squared off in a tightly-contested race for the No. 8 seed in the West. It went down to the final day of the regular season, with the clubs finishing deadlocked at 45-37 apiece, but New Orleans earned the coveted berth based on a 3-1 head-to-head tiebreaking advantage. This Western Conference matchup has been filled with standout performances in recent years, including some of the premier statistical games of Russell Westbrook’s career – which is saying something – and several epic nights by Anthony Davis. Over Davis’ four-year tenure in the pros, his most memorable highlight remains the off-balance three-pointer he sank at the buzzer to beat Oklahoma City on its home floor in February ’15. In 2016-17, predictions vary for both OKC and New Orleans, but games vs. the Thunder could again be important ones for the Pelicans in their pursuit of the postseason.
What’s new in Oklahoma City
Let’s start with what’s gone: You may have heard that a certain high-scoring Thunder franchise player decided to take his talents to the Bay Area on July 4. Kevin Durant’s departure gives OKC a drastically different look for the first time since moving to the Sooner State in 2008. As a result, Westbrook will likely have to shoulder an immense load, relied on by the Thunder to score, rebound, dish and defend, but the All-Star has shown he’s more than capable in the past. Fortunately for OKC, the supporting cast is steadily progressing, particularly due to the emergence of young center Steven Adams. The Thunder lost power forward Serge Ibaka in a trade with Orlando, but acquired former No. 2 overall draft pick Victor Oladipo, who could pair with Westbrook in an aggressive backcourt. OKC also landed lottery pick Domantas Sabonis and veteran floor-spacer Ersan Ilyasova in the same deal.
Other 2016-17 games between these two teams
Sunday, Dec. 4, New Orleans at Oklahoma CityWednesday, Jan. 25, Oklahoma City at New OrleansSunday, Feb. 26, New Orleans at Oklahoma City (NBA TV)
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