Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder dunks against CJ McCollum of the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday, March 11, 2023. (AP Photo/Derick Hingle)

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 35 points as the Oklahoma City Thunder beat the beleaguered New Orleans Pelicans 110-96 on Saturday for their fourth win in five games.

Josh Giddey added 19 points and Jalen Williams had 17 for the Thunder, who led for much of the game, including by 21 points in the first half.

Gilgeous-Alexander, who didn’t attempt a 3-pointer, made 11 of 23 shots and made 13 of his free throws.

New Orleans, which was already missing power forward Zion Williamson through injury, also had to play without productive forward Brandon Ingram, who started the day in questionable fashion after leaving the Wednesday’s game due to a sprained right knee.

CJ McCollum scored 26 points for the Pelicans, who entered the fourth quarter 15 points behind and shot under nine with more than five minutes remaining.

Reserve Isaiah Joe’s third 3-pointer of the game sent New Orleans down a notch. Giddey’s float and Gilgeous-Alexander’s layup picked up the win.

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