OKLAHOMA CITY — After the Spurs game Tuesday night, Nuggets coach George Karl was asked about Kenyon Martin, who sat out with strep throat.
“After watching us play tonight, we need him.” Karl said.
Alas, the Nuggets had to go another night without Martin, who decided he needed another night of rest.
“My throat’s just sore,” Martin groaned before the Thunder-Nuggets game Wednesday night.
Also, Nuggets guard Chauncey Billups was out with a sprained right ankle. Anthony Carter, last year’s starting point guard, took Billups’ place. Billups is questionable for Friday at Washington. Karl said he thinks Martin will play.
“He’s much better,” Karl said.
Denver started Renaldo Balkman at power forward and even called on Johan Petro early. Petro is normally “saved” for the fourth quarter, but played seven minutes in the first half, grabbing four rebounds.
Petro averages 4.2 minutes per game, compared with 15.5 when he played for the Thunder earlier this season.
On the road.
The Nuggets began their eight-game road trip, interrupted by the all-star break. Six of the eight opponents, including the Thunder, have records .500 or worse.
“Anytime you go on the road, .500 is a great trip, and anything over it is icing on the cake,” Karl said. “If we can go 4-4, we can have a good trip.”
Benjamin Hochman, The Denver Post
