Pelicans Face Tough Challenge Against Thunder Amid Injury Struggles

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The New Orleans Pelicans are hoping to end an eight-game losing streak as they visit the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night. The match-up at the Paycom Center will tip off at 7:00 p.m. CST, and pits the struggling Pelicans against the Thunder, who currently hold the best record in the Western Conference at 42-9.

The Pelicans, mired in a four-game road trip, have lost their last four games against the Thunder, including two earlier this season. Their latest defeat was a 125-113 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Monday night. New Orleans has recently been reshaped by trade, dealing star forward Brandon Ingram to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for Bruce Brown and Kelly Olynyk.

The looming game highlights New Orleans’ injury struggles. Starting center Zion Williamson, who recently made history by scoring 40 points in just 27 minutes, was not on the injury report and is expected to return to the lineup for the first time against Oklahoma City this season. The Pelicans will still be without key players, including Dejounte Murray, who has been ruled out for the season with an Achilles injury, along with Herb Jones (shoulder) and the newly acquired Kelly Olynyk and Bruce Brown, who are also out. New Orleans has recorded the worst road record in the league this season.

The Thunder feature a formidable defense and lead the league in several defensive categories, including opponent points allowed per game and opponent field goal percentage. Starting center Chet Holmgren, who recently returned from a three-month injury layoff, has quickly made his presence felt, recording four blocks and two steals in his initial game back.

In addition to their notable defensive prowess, Oklahoma City’s injury report lists five bench players, including Isaiah Joe (knee) and Cason Wallace (shoulder), as unavailable for the match. The Thunder’s depth, however, has allowed them to maintain their status as a Western Conference leader.

Pelicans head coach Willie Green spoke about the depth challenges posed by the Thunder, saying, “They’ve got a lot of great players. It’s going to require a team effort to even compete with them on their home court.”

This game presents an opportunity for the Pelicans to rally as they seek momentum heading into a long season, while the Thunder aim to sustain their strong performance as the All-Star break approaches. Both teams are eager to establish their dominance in the Western Conference race.