NEW ORLEANS (AP) Jimmy Butler had 29 points and nine assists, and the Miami Heat took advantage of Zion Williamson's absence to beat the New Orleans Pelicans 103-93 on Thursday night.

With a repertoire of strong inside moves and accurate mid-range shooting, Butler made 10 of 14 shots and eight of nine free throws to help the Heat keep the Pelicans at bay. Butler added a late step-back 3 to give him 10 points during an 11-2 run that put Miami up 98-87 with 2:50 to go.

"You can see we trust him, we want him to have the ball in those moments and he always comes through," Heat guard Goran Dragic said. "It's really awesome to watch him, what he's able to do. He can manipulate the game, get to the free throw line, make shots."