New Orleans Pelicans Fall Just Short in Game 1 Against Thunder

The New Orleans Pelicans put up a valiant effort in a close game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday night, despite missing their star player Zion Williamson. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came through in the clutch for the Thunder, leading them to a narrow 94-92 victory in what was one of the most exciting Game 1 matchups of the weekend.

The Thunder, hosting their first playoff game in five years, managed to hold off a late surge from the Pelicans to secure the win. After a dry spell in the fourth quarter, Gilgeous-Alexander stepped up with a crucial jumper to tie the game and then converted an incredible and-one shot to put the Thunder ahead for good.

Despite a strong performance from Trey Murphy and CJ McCollum, the Pelicans couldn’t quite pull off the upset without Williamson on the court. Gilgeous-Alexander finished with 28 points, leading the Thunder to victory, while Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren also made significant contributions.

The Pelicans had to fight their way into the playoffs by defeating the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament, and they will have to continue to prove themselves without Williamson in the lineup. While they showed they can compete with the Western Conference’s top seed, the question remains whether they can pull off a series upset in the absence of their star player.