SALT LAKE CITY — While his teammates warmed up before the Jazz game, Carmelo Anthony likely rinsed his mouth with warm saltwater. The Nuggets all-star had three wisdom teeth removed Wednesday while serving his two-game suspension to start Denver’s season (the suspension stemmed from his DWAI last April).
“Melo, right now, couldn’t have traveled,” Denver coach George Karl said. “He might be able to travel tomorrow. . . . It’s kind of painful. Right now, he’s just in recovery. I’d like to see him in L.A. (today), but there’s a possibility he won’t be there, either.”
There has been some consternation from Nuggets faithful about Anthony opting for the surgery during the suspension. Some think Anthony, a co-captain, should be with his team, whether he’s playing or not.
“People are going to talk regardless,” veteran guard Chucky Atkins said. “He can’t play, so what’s the big deal? Stay home, get some rest, watch the game on TV — you can get a better view on TV — and come back and be a force.”
Benjamin Hochman, The Denver Post
