Jimmy Butler ejected, Miami Heat top New Orleans Pelicans

Miami Heat defeats New Orleans Pelicans, 112-97, in a game that saw a scuffle on court and ejections of players and fans.

Miami's Bam Adebayo led the way with 24 points in a game that saw the Miami Heat snap the New Orleans Pelicans' four-game winning streak and extend their own winning streak to seven games against the Pelicans. The game was marked by a physical altercation that resulted in the ejection of several players, including Miami reserve Thomas Bryant and Pelicans players Jose Alvarado and Naji Marshall. The incident also led to the ejection of a couple of fans who threw objects at Heat players. The scuffle began when Heat center Kevin Love fouled Zion Williamson to prevent a layup, resulting in a heated confrontation.

Despite the Pelicans briefly taking the lead in the second half, the Heat responded with a decisive 11-0 run. Duncan Robinson and Tyler Herro contributed 17 and 15 points, respectively, for the Heat. However, Herro appeared to sustain a knee injury late in the game. Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with 23 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, while Herb Jones and Jonas Valanciunas also made significant contributions.

Despite being outrebounded and outscored in the paint, the Heat's superior shooting percentages ultimately made the difference in the game. Jimmy Butler's 17 points in the first half helped the Heat establish an early lead, but the Pelicans mounted a dramatic comeback to tie the game at halftime.

Ultimately, the Heat's efficient shooting from beyond the arc and overall field goal percentage secured their victory over the Pelicans. The game was characterized by physical play and intense competition, resulting in an entertaining and closely contested matchup between the two teams.