The Miami Heat are headed into the All-Star break on a high note after a 103-93 win over the Pelicans on Thursday night. Jimmy Butler returned to game action after being held out the past two games with right knee inflammation. He led the way with 29 points, along with 9 assists. Kelly Olynyk stepped up in Bam Adebayo‘s absence and made a huge impact. As a result, he finished with 18 points and 10 rebounds.
First time All-Star Zion Williamson was held out of the game with right toe irritation. Williamson is enjoying a terrific sophomore year as he has grown into one of the league’s top elite scorers. Despite strong performances from Brandon Ingram (17 points) and Steven Adams (15 points), there just wasn’t enough fire power to slow down Butler and the Heat in the second half.
With 2:50 to go in the game, Butler hit a step-back three that gave him 10 points during an 11-2 run. This put the Heat up 98-87. Since returning from COVID-19 Protocols in late January, Butler has been on fire, doing everything possible for a win. If the Heat want to be a contender in the East, Butler has to keep up this level of play. As of now, he is showing no signs of slowing down.
The Heat are on a tear as of late with a 7-1 record over their past eight games and now improve to 18-18 on the season.
Additional Heat Mentions
Goran Dragic helped fuel the second half by scoring nine of his 13 points for Miami. Andre Iguodala finished with 10 points and sealed the victory with a late driving dunk. Kendrick Nunn also scored 13 points.
What’s Next?
Head Coach Erik Spoelstra’s 12-year go with the Heat has resulted in winning 62% of its games after the All-Star break. The Heat will look to carry this momentum to the second half of the season.
Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat host the Orlando Magic on March 11.