A cold shooting night from the new CJ McCollum-Devonte’ Graham backcourt and heady play by Miami veterans helped end the New Orleans winning streak in their first game since acquiring three players from the Portland Trail Blazers.
Down just seven points with about four minutes to go, the Pels sputtered, missed shots, and stumbled home to finish 112-97 losers on the night.
Much of their best play, particularly in the 4th quarter, was thanks to Jose Alvarado using supreme quickness and confidence, as he finished with 17 points in 20 minutes. McCollum had 15 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, but shot just 6 of 21 and 2 of 10 from 3.