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Blazers, Pelicans set for Big Easy battle

Dec 30, 2013 - 4:25 PM (SportsNetwork.com) - The Portland Trail Blazers are coming off a tough loss and hope to get back on track Monday against the New Orleans Pelicans.

The Blazers dropped a 108-107 decision to the Miami Heat on Saturday, as Chris Bosh hit the game-winning 3-pointer in the final moments.

All five Portland starters scored in double figures and Wesley Matthews led the bunch with 23 points. LaMarcus Aldridge had 22 points and seven rebounds, Robin Lopez added 17 points and Damian Lillard ended with 16 and seven assists.

Portland's inbounds pass went toward the rim, where Aldridge's tip layup missed as the buzzer sounded.

"It was tough to judge how hard I should shoot it falling backwards," said Aldridge. "If I could go back in time I might try to go glass."

Portland, which is 11-3 this month, will also visit Oklahoma City on the short trip and is 12-3 as the visitor this season.

New Orleans had a two-game winning streak stopped its last time out and lost for the fifth time in seven tries with Saturday's 107-98 setback at Houston.

Ryan Anderson and Anthony Davis each registered double-doubles in the setback. Anderson netted 22 points and 12 rebounds, while Davis went for 18 and 16. Tyreke Evans and Jrue Holiday each had nine assists.

"We don't want to be close, we want to get there," said Evans. "We have the talent to get there. Its kind of tough to take these losses. We all wanted to win."

The Pelicans, who are 8-5 at home, will hit the road for four games after their tilt with Portland. Guard Eric Gordon (hip) is questionable Monday.

Portland recorded a 110-107 victory against New Orleans last Saturday and has won six of eight and seven of the last 10 matchups between the teams.