Who knew that the match-up between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the New Orleans Pelicans would be the most entertaining Game 1 in the first round of playoffs this year? Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren did their best to save a home game and managed to win a nail-biter at Paycom Center. The Thunder fans went home with a smile, but Charles Barkley was not satisfied with what OKC displayed today. 

Barkley has always endorsed this young core, who have turned out to become fan favorites this season. Pelicans were not expected to be a threat to the Thunder, but CJ McCollum and Trey Murphy III proved why they deserve a playoff spot. The Thunder had several turnovers late in the fourth quarter, which turned the game into a thriller. Barkley was not a fan of this. He shared on Inside the NBA, “OKC played as bad as they could play and they still won the game. I think it’s a great win for them.“

However, Gilgeous-Alexander was clutch as always. He hit a one-legged jumper from the free throw line and also drew contact to get the foul. That gave OKC a two-point lead, which helped them to seal Game 1. Notably, this is the first win for the Thunder in the playoffs in the last four years. 2020 was the last time they made it to the postseason. 

Also, this would be the perfect time to quote Barkley’s bold jab at the Pelicans, after they made it to the playoffs a few days back.

Charles Barkley did not want the New Orleans Pelicans in the first round against OKC

After the Pelicans eliminated the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament, Barkley’s desires were ruined. He believed the Kings were a better team, and with Zion Williamson out due to an injury, the 76ers legend was sure that OKC would sweep the Pelicans. However, it was not an easy win for the Thunder today.

The Pelicans’ defense was a tough nut to crack. They are ranked second in three-point defense and fifth in ‘Inside the Paint‘ defense. Gilgeous-Alexander had three turnovers today and the Pelicans had a total of seven steals. Despite such a competitive performance from the New Orleans unit, Barkley said after the game, “I don’t think they can win the series.”

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He highlighted a play from the fourth quarter where the Pelicans took three offensive rebounds but missed three contested shots to give away the possession to OKC. So Barkley still does not have much hope for the Pelicans. Let’s see if they can turn things around.