The Oklahoma City Thunder face the New Orleans Pelicans for the first time this season after sweeping them in last year's playoffs. The Thunder, currently 9-2, are looking to bounce back from a recent 2-2 stretch, relying heavily on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams due to Chet Holmgren's injury.

Meanwhile, the struggling Pelicans sit at 3-8, missing key players CJ McCollum and Zion Williamson, and are on a five-game losing streak. This matchup is crucial for both teams as they navigate early-season challenges.