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Jose Alvarado · Something of a hot topic after playfully calling his 33-year-old teammate “grandpa” after his 50-point showcase, Jose Alvarado — to anyone in disagreement — can at least counter in knowing that his hustle plays are capable of being appreciated by every generation. Working as one-half of a thrilling, two-player platoon intent on protecting the rim during the Washington Wizards’ seemingly-guaranteed fastbreak score, Jose Alvarado compensates for roughly a 20-foot distance between himself and Malcolm Brogdon by breaking into a full-on sprint. Rivaling his teammate’s energy after a breathtaking swat, Alvarado transitions into “Grand Theft Alvarado” mode, gathering a from-behind steal of Kyshawn George’s dribble before curtaining the beautiful string with an alley-oop lob for his highflying teammate. Turning his team’s deficit into a lead before returning to the sidelines, Alvarado was one of many standouts during January 3, 2025’s win. Pairing his +16 plus-minus in 19 minutes with versatile complements, the New Orleans Pelicans’ fourth-year guard also accrued a five-point, two-rebound, three-assist, three-steal, one-triple addition. · State of Mint