Playing without Zion Williamson for only the second time this season, New Orleans had a vastly different look Thursday, relying more heavily on multi-guard lineups and their other three first-round picks from the last two NBA drafts. Although some of the Pelicans’ young players delivered solid games and highlights along the way, it wasn’t enough to overcome a Heat team that has been playing very well lately. Miami posted its seventh win in eight games, handing New Orleans a second straight home defeat as both squads wrapped up the first half of 2020-21.
In addition to Williamson being sidelined, Pelicans reserve JJ Redick was out due to injury.