In a game where neither team caved, the New Orleans Pelicans were inefficient. They shot 46 percent from the field and 22 percent from three. The OKC Thunder was better in both categories (48 percent and 30 percent respectively). You would think that OKC would be able to win most games if they shoot better than their opponent from those categories, right?
Here’s the rub. New Orleans hit seven more free throws. They also dominated the Thunder on the glass 56-39 (17-9 offensive!). This resulted in 10 additional shots and an advantage in points in the paint (74 to 48) by the home team.