The worst of Carmelo Anthony’s problems on Monday was getting over a cold, and for that the Nuggets star forward wore four layers of athletic clothing during practice.
But the injured finger that has kept him out of the Nuggets’ first two preseason games, however, was taped but fine. Anthony participated in a full practice at the Pepsi Center and expects to play on Wednesday in Denver’s third preseason game, at home against Utah.
“I’m good now,” Anthony said. “I’m back. I’m looking forward to it, just getting out there on the court and playing with these guys in a real game situation.”
The injury, officially a bruised ring finger on his left hand, occurred late last week in practice when a teammate slapped down on Anthony’s hand. Initially, the Nuggets forward thought it was much worse than it turned out to be.
“I couldn’t move it, I thought it was broke,” Anthony said. “The X-rays gave me some good news.”
Anthony missed the Nuggets first two preseason games, including Saturday’s outdoor game against Phoenix at Indian Hills. But he says he’s ready for action.
“I feel good,” Anthony said. “Being off those couple of days gave me a chance to rest. Not doing any basketball really helped it out.”
Footnotes
Guard Allen Iverson missed Monday’s practice due to a family matter. He is expected to return to the team on Tuesday.
…Forward Renaldo Balkman (sprained ankle) sat out of most of practice.
…Chris Andersen (calf) participated in most of practice. He has played in all of the Nuggets preseason games so far.
Chris Dempsey: 303-954-1279 or cdempsey@denverpost.com
