New Orleans was dealt a big blow today as center Tyson Chandler was suspended by the NBA and will not play in tonight’s game against the Nuggets at the Pepsi Center.
The 7-1, 235-pound Chandler was suspended one game without pay for throwing an elbow that hit Portland center Joel Pryzbilla in the neck during Friday night’s Hornets-Trail Blazers game. The incident, which occurred during the third quarter, resulted in the ejection of both athletes. Pryzbilla was fined $7,500 for his role in the incident.
In Chandler’s absence, his usual replacement as starter has been Hilton Armstrong. The third-year pro from Connecticut has started five times this season and is averaging 4.4 points and 2.8 rebounds per game.
Without Chandler, who averages 8.8 points and 8.0 rebounds per game and has played well against Denver in the past, the size-lacking Nuggets matchup better with the New Orleans frontcourt. Both teams are coming off of games last night.
Chris Dempsey: 303-954-1279 or cdempsey@denverpost.com
