JR Smith's 30-point eruption in Memphis has the Denver Nuggets on course for a perfect 4-0 road trip. The last challenge comes in the form of the Houston Rockets.
Denver got key contributions from Smith, Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups against the Grizzlies and managed particularly well without forward Kenyon Martin, winning the rebound battle in Memphis. Despite all the talk surrounding the Dallas Mavericks' hot streak, the Nuggets have won six straight and are back at number two in the West.
The Rockets will present different threats, though. Aaron Brooks is having a stellar year at the point and Luis Scola poured in 44 points against the New Jersey Nets at the weekend. Kevin Martin, acquired from the Sacramento Kings, is Houston's premier shooter.
But the Rockets are short of a shot blocker and cannot match the strength of Billups and Nene in the post. Shane Battier is a top stopper but will have his hands full with an in-form Anthony. Looking at the line-ups on paper, Denver has the varied scoring options to keep the Rockets guessing.
Billups' battle with Brooks will be the key area as two contrasting styles come head to head. The Nuggets point guard is scoring the ball more than ever before in his career and is stepping his leadership up another notch while George Karl cannot be with the team.
Denver is looking a real contender down the finishing stretch - despite an ugly schedule - and a 4-0 road trip would be the perfect boost for Karl as he watches from home.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment