The Heat largely limped through the first quarter of their Christmas Day win over the Pelicans on Friday. Bam Adebayo had as many points (two) as turnovers in the opening 12 minutes, and Jimmy Butler went just 1-4 from the field. After a dispiriting opening-night loss to the Magic, the Heat appeared in danger of another early-season upset. Duncan Robinson provided the necessary spark as the Heat’s stars struggled.
Miami’s third-year forward buried six threes in the first half, finishing the night with 23 points in a 111-98 victory. He punished New Orleans off both designed sets and collapsing defenders, canning triples from all areas of the floor.