New Orleans Pelicans: 5 Bold Western Conference Predictions for Disney

New Orleans Pelicans: Bold Western Conference Prediction #2

Prediction #2: The Thunder Roll

The OKC Thunder were one of the hottest teams heading into the hiatus, winning 8 of their last 10 games and doing it in unusual style.

Their three point guard lineup has proven to be difficult to stop and is currently the number one clutch time lineup in the NBA.

These games are pretty much all going to be played in the clutch time, so the Thunder should feel right at home.

They are so comfortable because of point guard Chris Paul, who is the ultimate floor general and runs the pick-and-roll like a great artist.

Paul is trying to overcome his playoff demons and finally doing it on a team where there are few expectations, unlike his time with the Rockets or Clippers. No one expected the Thunder would make much noise after trading away their two best players, but that’s exactly why I think they will.

A healthy and flying under the radar Chris Paul is a dangerous thing and the Thunder have the right combination of defense and high basketball I.Q. to thrive in the playoffs, where taking care of the ball and limiting easy baskets are key.

The Thunder do both well, as they have the sixth lowest turnover percentage in the league and allow the fewest fast break points to their opponents.

This is a recipe for success in the playoffs, when the games slow down and execution matters more than anything. Chris Paul and company will execute to the tune of 6-8 victories in the eight game finale.

They will move up to the fourth seed at least and possibly the third, and will be the team no one wants to play in the playoffs.