The Pelicans trailed 27-8 not nine minutes into the game. They had committed five turnovers, leading to 10 Miami points. CJ McCollum began 0-5 from the field while Bam Adebayo had scored as many points as the entire New Orleans team.
Things failed to improve from there.
The Pelicans fell 124-98 because the Heat played a much cleaner, more inspired game from start to finish. Their pick-and-roll decimated the New Orleans defense early, but they also checked off most effort categories.
Kyle Lowry had as many first-half offensive rebounds as the Pelicans combined. Miami crushed New Orleans 16-3 in points off turnovers and 13-4 in fast break points.