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In the NBA playoffs on the morning of April 22, Beijing time, the Thunder showed an eye-catching performance in the second game of the home game against the Pelicans. Not only did the Thunder show a strong balance of offense and defense in this matchup in the first round, but they also managed to steer the game to their own rhythm through overall teamwork and outstanding performances from individual players. This game is not only an ordinary playoff matchup, but also a contest of strength, strategy, and execution between the two teams.
Game recap
At the beginning of the game, the Pelicans' Valanciunas put on a stellar performance, scoring consecutive points to help the team quickly take the lead. However, the Thunder quickly adjusted their strategy, and Holmgren's accurate outside shooting and strong under-basket impact quickly helped the team close the gap and eventually overtake the score at the end of the first quarter. The Thunder led 35-22 in the first quarter, with Holmgren scoring 15 points alone, showing his ability to score in crunch time.
Heading into the second quarter, the Thunder's offense didn't wane, with Holmgren continuing his scoring performance and Dort responding with long-range three-pointers. Although the Pelicans tried to narrow the gap through fast break and accurate shooting, the Thunder's defense was also strong, frequently interrupting the Pelicans' offensive rhythm at critical moments. At halftime, the Thunder maintained their lead at 63-50.
After the start of the third quarter, the two sides switched offense and defense more quickly. Alexander and Ingram began to struggle over scoring, with the two stars going back and forth, frequently making fouls and completing free throws. However, the biggest change in the quarter was the Pelicans' comeback, who quickly widened the margin by stepping up their defense and capitalizing on the Thunder's turnovers in the second half of the quarter. At the end of the third quarter, the Pelicans took a 94-76 lead and turned the game around in one fell swoop.
The performance of key players on both sides
Holmgren of the Thunder was undoubtedly the star of the game, contributing high points throughout the game, as well as rebounding and defense. As the team's point guard, Alexander not only scored on his own, but also assisted his teammates many times, and was a key engine of the team's offense. Dort's outside shooting ability also helped stabilize the team in key moments.
For the Pelicans, Valanciunas' stellar early game set the stage for the team, as he not only scored but also grabbed key rebounds on the defensive end on multiple occasions. Although Ingram got off to a slow start, he played a key role in chasing points in the third quarter by constantly attacking the basket. McCollum's consistent play was also one of the important factors in the team's ability to complete the comeback in the third quarter.
Score data for all players
Thunder scoring stats:
- Holmgren: 28 points, 12 rebounds
- Alexander: 24 points, 7 assists
- Dort: 18 points, 5 three-pointers
- Kirgiz Alexander: 12 points
- Williams: 8 points
Pelicans Scoring Stats:
- Ingram: 30 points, 6 assists
- Valanciunas: 22 points, 14 rebounds
- McCollum: 20 points
- Johnson: 10 points
- Hart: 9 points
The reason why a team wins or loses
The Pelicans' aggressive defense and quick counter-attack in the third quarter were key to their comeback game. By stepping up the pressure on the defensive end, they forced the Thunder into multiple turnovers on offense, which created opportunities for quick counter-attacks. In addition, Ingram's explosive performance in the second half also greatly boosted the team's morale.
Although the Thunder played well in the first half, the lack of consistent offensive efficiency and defensive concentration in the second half was the main reason for their loss. Their defense was noticeably lax in the third quarter, giving the Pelicans plenty of space to complete the scoring.
One point of contention in the game was the decision to be fouled by the Thunder on a key offense at the end of the third quarter, a decision that sparked widespread discussion. Many viewers and analysts believe it was a miscalculation, which may also have had a psychological impact on the Thunder, deepening their scoring drought.
In this game, the Pelicans showed their spirit of not giving up in the face of adversity, especially in the third quarter of the counterattack. Ingram's leadership and ability to score in key moments is invaluable to the team. However, the Thunder will need to make improvements in maintaining the pace of the game and defensive intensity, especially in the second half of the game.
The game was a quintessential playoff matchup, showcasing the strategy, technique and mental qualities of the two teams. The Pelicans' stellar performance in the third quarter set the stage for their eventual victory, while the Thunder showed that they need to be more resilient and calm in crunch time. In addition, controversial decisions in the game are a reminder that the issues of uncertainty and fairness in sports competitions remain a focus of concern. Overall, this match is not only a test of the players' skills, but also a challenge to their mental endurance.