The Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the host New Orleans Pelicans, 110-96, at Smoothie King Center on Saturday.

A 32-22 first quarter carries Oklahoma City to their victory, maintaining the lead for the final three quarters. A 31-22 second quarter allowed them to put the game away, leading by at least nine points for the closing 30 minutes. The Thunder shot 46 percent from the field while holding the Pelicans to 42 percent shooting. Oklahoma City also won the turnover battle, 22-11, recording 11 steals to New Orleans' three. OKC outscored NOLA in the paint, 48-36, and in fastbreak scoring, 18-10.

The Thunder (32-35) were led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, accruing 35 points, six rebounds, two assists and four steals. Josh Giddey generated 19 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Jalen Williams had 17 points, four rebounds, two assists and three steals. Isaiah Joe and Luguentz Dort had nine points apiece.

The Pelicans (32-35) were led by CJ McCollum, collecting 26 points, seven rebounds and eight assists. Naji Marshall amassed 15 points, eight rebounds and two assists. Trey Murphy tallied 15 points, four rebounds and two assists, while Jonas Valanciunas totaled 13 points and four rebounds. Jaxson Hayes led the bench with 11 points, eight rebounds, two assists and two blocks.

Oklahoma City has to play the second half of a back-to-back set on Sunday, traveling to face the San Antonio Spurs. As for New Orleans, they return to action on Tuesday in a home matchup with the Los Angeles Lakers.