The New Orleans Pelicans earned a 116-110 preseason victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder at Tulsa's BOK Center on October 6, 2026. This win provided an early look at the team's new backcourt addition, Dejounte Murray, alongside star forward Zion Williamson.
Key players saw action as the team began tuning up for the regular season. Dejounte Murray, acquired in the offseason, was active on both ends, shooting over defenders like Josh Dix. Zion Williamson went through his warm-up routine, showing no signs of restriction ahead of the contest. Rookie center Derik Queen made his presence felt with drives to the basket and shots in the paint against Thunder rookie Aday Mara. The final score, a 116-110 win for New Orleans, reflected a solid offensive outing.
Jeremiah Fears provided a highlight with a first-half dunk, while Trey Murphy III was also involved in the shooting action. The game wasn't just about the starters, though. Coach Willie Green got a chance to evaluate rotations and defensive schemes against a young, athletic Thunder squad led by Jared McCain. The Pelicans' ability to execute down the stretch in a close game is a positive preseason takeaway.
This victory was part of the team's preparation slate, which has seen mixed results. Following the win in Tulsa, the Pelicans faced the Miami Heat two days later on October 8. That game ended in a 128-118 preseason loss. So the team's record in these exhibition games currently sits at one win and one loss. These contests are purely for evaluation and conditioning, with outcomes far less important than player health and system implementation.
The focus is on integrating new pieces like Murray and Queen into the core built around Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum. Every minute on the court helps build chemistry.
The Pelicans' next preseason fixture is an away game against the Dallas Mavericks on October 14, 2026. It will be another challenging test against a Western Conference rival featuring Luka Dončić. This game offers a final major tune-up before the regular season tips off later in the month. Coach Green will likely continue to experiment with lineups and give significant minutes to his primary rotation players.
Expect to see more of the Zion Williamson and Dejounte Murray pick-and-roll dynamic. The coaching staff will also be looking for improved defensive communication after allowing 128 points to Miami. The Dallas game is the last chance to make adjustments before the games start to count in the standings.
