On The Rebound
123-107 rout of Clippers snaps Denver's three game losing streak
After losing 4 of their last 5 games, it was safe to say that the Nuggets were in dire need of a win. On Friday night the Nuggets got just that, and then some. Defeating the visiting Los Angeles Clippers never looked hard for the Nuggets, as they comfortably cruised past them for the complete duration of the game. The Nuggets were led by stellar performances from their big scorers, Allen Iverson (26 points), Carmelo Anthony (24 points) and J.R. Smith (22 points). The best part about the Nuggets solid offensive night was that they didn't have to chuck up a goon sized number of shots to get the points. Most notable was the performance of the red hot J.R. Smith, who managed to corral his 22 points in just 21 minuets of play - mostly off a sizzling 6 for 9 from beyond the arc. This type of offensively exacerbated performance is something that Smith is more than capable of delivering on the majority of nights. When he gets hot, look out below, the kid can flat out shoot your opponent right out of the ball game. Furthermore, it seems noteworthy to mention that, when J.R. does catch fire, how so many things seem to come together for the Nuggets. Other than Smith, two more standouts bore the responsibility for the Nuggets' dominating performance, Kenyon Martin and Anthony Carter. Martin, who is under strict orders to take it slow in these back to back scenarios, played tremendous defense all night long on Clippers oaf, Chris Kaman. In previous games, the Eastern Michigan big man has given the Nuggets all they could handle. Tonight, due to Kenyon's defense, no such paint domination took place. Controlling Chris Kaman was a vital component to the Nuggets victory. You also have to tip your hat to Anthony Carter who, in just his 5th game back, has really made his presence felt. Getting the start for the second consecutive night, Carter dished out a season high 10 assists, complimented by 8 points. George Karl has said that he plans to start Carter for, at least, the next 10 games. Calling it a "lineup experiment", Karl was happy to acknowledge that, to this point, seems to be working out. The Nuggets will have Saturday off to get some much needed rest as they prepare for a Sunday afternoon showdown with the visiting Miami Heat.
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