Thunder vs Pelicans, preview and gamethread: OKC looks to make it 5 in a row

Game: Oklahoma City Thunder vs New Orleans Pelicans

Time: 7PM CST

Location: Chesapeake Arena, OKC

Broadcast: NBA TV

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The Thunder return home after a 2-game road trip where they got their record back to .500. To move ahead in the game however, they have to face MVP candidate Anthony Davis (probable) and the Pelicans.

New Orleans started off the season strong but have faded as of late, likely due to injuries sustained by Davis and newcomer Elfrid Payton. However, if Davis can go tonight, he always poses particular risks to any team, and the Thunder are no exception. Furthermore, Nikola Mirotic in his 2nd year with the team has had a hot start to the season, providing plenty of long distance shooting and spacing for Davis to operate.

The Thunder will have to bring the same level of defensive focus tonight if they are to avoid the risk that befell them against Boston - fouling early and often. In doing so, they can let their defense create turnovers, bad shots, and transition offense where Russell Westbrook and company thrive. A smart game means OKC can win game #5, but inattention to detail, particularly the kind that plagued them in their losses to the Kings and Celtics, could mean sliding below .500 once again.