Nikola Jovic's Career-High Leads Heat Over Trail Blazers
MIAMI — Nikola Jovic delivered a career-best performance, scoring 29 points off the bench as the Miami Heat defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 136–131 on Saturday night. Jovic also grabbed nine rebounds and handed out seven assists, leading a balanced team effort.
- Norman Powell contributed 22 points for Miami.
- Pelle Larsson scored 16 points.
- Andrew Wiggins added 15 points, including a key late 3-pointer.
- Jaime Jaquez Jr. finished with 14 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists.
- Kel’el Ware pulled down 12 rebounds.
Jovic surpassed his previous career-high of 24 points.
For Portland, Deni Avdija continued his strong season with 33 points, maintaining a 25.3-point average. Shaedon Sharpe tallied 21 points, while Jrue Holiday and Jerami Grant each scored 18.
Game Highlights
The contest remained tight deep into the fourth quarter, with neither team leading by more than four until the closing minutes.
Jrue Holiday hit a 3-pointer with 3:26 remaining to tie the game at 123–123, setting up a tense finish.
Andrew Wiggins answered with a 3-pointer at the 1:32 mark, giving Miami a 132–127 edge, a lead the Heat preserved to remain undefeated at home (4–0).
Miami improved to 6–2 when scoring 115 or more points and fell short only in games under that mark (0–2). Despite missing 14 of their first 15 shots and facing an early 15–3 deficit, the Heat recovered quickly after a cold start.
Author’s Summary
Nikola Jovic’s breakout 29-point game powered the Heat past Portland in a fast-paced clash, keeping Miami perfect at home and showcasing balanced team depth.