When the Nuggets’ practice Saturday turned into a scrimmage, forwards Kenyon Martin and Nene turned into spectators.
Both players are on a limited practice schedule because of their injuries. Martin is still recovering from his microfracture knee surgery. Nene has a calf strain.
Their absence doesn’t negate what coach George Karl is trying to establish on defense. In fact, Karl said the team has made big strides in that department.
“We’re competitive and have been running a lot of defense,” Karl said. “I think defensively right now we’re probably ahead of the offense, which causes some frustration. When you don’t score and (you) make offensive mistakes, there seems to be a little more frustration to the practice.
“That’s a good thing, because I think defensively we’re ahead of the curve and we’ve grown up a lot there.”
Two other players are on the injured list – guards Chucky Atkins (right abductor strain) and Anthony Carter (broken hand). Carter is wearing a cast, but Atkins took part in practice.
“Nene and Kenyon went about half or two-thirds, and Chucky went the whole time,” Karl said. “I think most of our (injured) guys are in a good place. Some guys probably need some extra work, maybe some extra time that they wouldn’t get if it were the regular season.”
Mike Chambers: 303-954-1357 or mchambers@denverpost.com
