Thunder Dominate Pelicans to Extend Perfect Start to 7-0

The defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder continued their blistering start to the season, delivering a commanding 137-106 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday. The win pushes the Thunder’s record to a perfect 7-0, matching the impressive start of their 2024-25 championship campaign and solidifying their status as one of the league’s elite teams.

SGA Leads an Offensive Explosion For The Thunder

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was once again the catalyst for the Thunder’s success. The superstar guard was nearly unstoppable, pouring in 30 points in just three quarters of action before earning a well-deserved rest. His efficient scoring set the tone for an offensive clinic by Oklahoma City, as the team shot an exceptional 56% from the field.

OKC’s dominance extended beyond the paint. They were on fire from long range, connecting on 20 of their 48 three-point attempts. This offensive barrage was a team effort, with crisp ball movement leading to 33 assists and eight different players scoring in double figures. Aaron Wiggins contributed 15 points, while Cason Wallace and Isaiah Joe each added 13 points in a balanced attack that overwhelmed the winless Pelicans.

Dominance Despite Absences

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of OKC’s victory was that it came while the team was significantly shorthanded. Oklahoma City was without three key rotation players. Guard Luguentz Dort was sidelined with an illness, forward Chet Holmgren missed his third consecutive game with a lower back injury, and All-Star Jalen Williams has yet to make his season debut as he recovers from off-season wrist surgery.

Despite these absences, the Thunder’s “next man up” mentality was on full display. The team’s depth shone through, and their system continued to generate high-quality shots. Coach Mark Daigneault praised his team’s maturity and persistence, noting that their commitment to generating good looks is now paying off with impressive shooting performances.

A Perfect Start

With the win, Oklahoma City remains one of the few unbeaten teams left in the NBA. Their ability to maintain such a high level of play without several key contributors sends a powerful message to the rest of the league. While the Pelicans struggled to find answers, the Thunder looked every bit the part of a defending champion playing with confidence and precision. As they continue to navigate this early part of the season, their perfect record and dominant play have established them as the team to beat.