What We Learned Last Night: Pelicans End Grizzlies Perfect Start in Monday NBA Thriller
Monday night in the NBA delivered exactly what bettors love: a perfect season ended in overtime, a superstar duel decided in the final minute, and several streaks that should change how you price teams this week. The New Orleans Pelicans handed the Memphis Grizzlies their first loss of the season, 135-134 in overtime, ending a six game winning streak that matched a franchise record for Memphis to open a season.
Zion Williamson led New Orleans with 25 points and 11 rebounds, and Jeremiah Fears sank two clutch free throws with 7.3 seconds left in overtime to put the Pelicans ahead. Ty Jerome scored 40 for Memphis, but his attempt for the win missed. New Orleans has now won three straight after opening 0-4.
Thunder edge Cavaliers as Gilgeous-Alexander delivers late
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a season high 43 points, including the go ahead three pointer with 33 seconds left, as Oklahoma City edged host Cleveland 117-112. It was the Thunder’s first win in three games, all on the road, since losing center Chet Holmgren, forward Jalen Williams and guard Cason Wallace to major injuries.
Oklahoma City is winning short handed, leaning on its star to close games.
Lakers roll as Doncic tops 40 again
Luka Doncic continued his hot start with 42 points and 13 assists in a 138-117 home win over Miami, topping 40 points for the fourth time this season. Austin Reaves added 27 for the Lakers, who have opened the season with six wins in eight games. Giannis Antetokounmpo recorded 30 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists for Miami, but the Heat had a two game winning streak halted.
Quick hits from the rest of Monday’s slate
Philadelphia improved to 7-1 with a 126-107 win over Chicago. San Antonio won its fifth straight game, beating Utah 119-97. Golden State won its fifth straight, edging Phoenix 116-113 behind Stephen Curry’s 34 points. On the other side, the Los Angeles Clippers lost their sixth straight, falling 125-118 at home to Toronto after blowing a 14 point fourth quarter lead. Sacramento finally got its first win, beating Dallas 115-100.
What It Means for Bettors
Three lessons stand out. First, do not blindly ride undefeated records. Memphis opened 6-0 and the market loved the Grizzlies, but New Orleans had already won two straight and closed the game better in overtime. Second, respect teams that win through injuries. Oklahoma City’s short handed win at Cleveland says more about the Thunder’s closing ability than any blowout would.
Third, streaks cut both ways. The Clippers have now lost six straight and keep finding ways to lose late, while the Spurs and Warriors have each won five straight with defense and depth, not just star power. With a full 15 game NBA slate on Tuesday, November 3, featuring all 30 teams, check the injury reports and line movement before tipoff.
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