Carmelo Anthony is having an MVP-calibre season but playing without Chauncey Billups hurt the Nuggets in New Orleans where the Hornets won 98-92 on Friday.
Without Billups as a second option, Denver struggled when the Hornets trapped Anthony and forced others to make the big plays. JR Smith contributed 25 points but Mr Big Shot's steady hand was sorely missed as he recovers from a groin injury.
With Dallas losing at home to the Rockets, Denver remain in second spot in the West but it is becoming increasingly apparent that the Nuggets can only challenge for a return to Conference Finals if their starters are in peak health.
Kenyon Martin has missed games this season - all of which the Nuggets have lost - and they are 0-1 in the current patch without Billups. Head coach George Karl has already suggested that his veteran leader might well sit against the Grizzlies on Sunday too.
If Billups does miss his second straight game, Denver will need a more composed performance than the one in New Orleans to secure their 20th win of the season.
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