Nikola Jovic's Career-High 29 Points Lead the Heat Past the Trail Blazers 136-131
MIAMI — Nikola Jovic delivered the best game of his young career, scoring a personal high of 29 points off the bench to lift the Miami Heat to a 136-131 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday night. He also grabbed nine rebounds and handed out seven assists, showcasing a complete performance on both ends of the floor.
Heat’s Supporting Cast Shines
- Norman Powell contributed 22 points for Miami.
- Pelle Larsson added 16 points.
- Andrew Wiggins had 15 points and a key three-pointer late in the game.
- Jaime Jaquez Jr. recorded 14 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists.
- Kel’el Ware dominated the glass with 12 rebounds.
Jovic’s previous career best was 24 points, making this outing a breakthrough performance for the 21-year-old forward. The Heat have now improved to 4-0 at home this season and moved to 6-2 when scoring at least 115 points.
Trail Blazers Battle to the End
Deni Avdija led Portland with 33 points, continuing his strong season average of 25.3 points per game. The Blazers also got 21 points from Shaedon Sharpe and 18 apiece from Jrue Holiday and Jerami Grant. It was the first game of their five-game road trip.
Thrilling Fourth Quarter Finish
The game remained tight through the final quarter, with neither team leading by more than four until the closing minutes. Holiday tied the game at 123-all with a 3-pointer at the 3:26 mark.
“Wiggins’ three-pointer with 1:32 left gave Miami a 132-127 lead, and the Heat held on from there.”
The Heat overcame a rough start—missing 14 of their first 15 shots and falling behind 15-3 early—but quickly found their rhythm after a cold opening quarter. Just one night earlier, Miami had set a franchise record with 53 first-quarter points.
Author’s Summary
Nikola Jovic powered Miami with a career-best 29 points as the Heat overcame a slow start to edge Portland 136-131, remaining unbeaten at home this season.
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