04/22/2024, 2:27 PM

Carries OKC to victory in Game 1

Gilgeous-Alexander looked a bit off at times and wasn't as dominant as he's been in previous games, but the star floor general came through when the team needed him the most. An off-balance shot in the dying stages of the fourth quarter would be the game-winner for a Thunder team that had to work harder than expected to get past New Orleans. Gilgeous-Alexander was massive during the regular season and was named a finalist for the MVP Award on Sunday, so he's expected to continue leading the way for the Thunder in this series. Game 2 is scheduled for Wednesday at Paycom Center.

04/22/2024, 2:26 PM

Solid output in Game 1 victory

Williams struggled from beyond the arc, but other than that, he delivered a solid performance as the Thunder barely escaped with the victory in Game 1. This was Williams' best scoring performance since March 31, when he scored 33 points in a win over the Knicks just before missing four contests with an ankle injury. He should remain a vital cog in the Thunder's offensive scheme for Game 2 on Wednesday.

04/22/2024, 2:24 PM

Swats five shots in win Sunday

Holmgren had all sorts of problems with Jonas Valanciunas on the glass, and his shooting wasn't entirely efficient. However, the rookie didn't look outmatched in the first playoff appearance of his career, particularly on the defensive end with a few key blocks down the stretch, including one in the dying stages of the fourth quarter where the Pelicans were creeping on a comeback. Holmgren is not going to lead the Thunder in scoring since he plays alongside Jalen Williams and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, but he's still an excellent two-way threat every time he steps on the court.