PREVIEW: The Oklahoma City Thunder arrive in New Orleans riding a five-game winning streak with the league's best record at 13-1, while the Pelicans sit at the bottom of the West with a 2-11 mark and enter on a five-game losing skid. The Thunder lead the NBA defensively, allowing just 106.2 points per game, while their offensive punch ranks fifth at 121.5 points. Oklahoma City ranks first in forcing turnovers and third in limiting opponents to low-quality three-point attempts. With several key players sidelined, the Thunder have leaned heavily on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP averaging 32.6 points per game and leading the team in scoring in 12 of their 14 contests. The Pelicans rank last in scoring at 108.4 points per game and generate the fewest assists in the league at 22.8, while their defense sits 24th and allows 121.3 points. New Orleans ranks 28th in defensive efficiency against rim attacks and struggles with 3-point shooting efficiency, finishing 29th in that category. The matchup features a significant rest advantage for Oklahoma City, which arrives fresh while New Orleans plays the second game of a back-to-back after dropping 124-106 to Golden State. The Thunder have dominated this rivalry, winning each of the past 10 meetings between these franchises.