Wilson Chandler was held out of Saturday night’s game against Minnesota as the Nuggets do everything they can to be completely healthy for the NBA playoffs.
Chandler was among the banged-up Nuggets who didn’t play against the Timberwolves at the Pepsi Center. Timofey Mozgov is in the middle of a two-week stretch that he’s expected to miss because of a sprained ankle and knee. Arron Afflalo is out because of strained hamstring. Afflalo has missed 12 of the last 16 games.
Chandler was held out of a March 23 game against Washington because of ankle issues. Neither he nor Nuggets coach George Karl thinks it’s anything serious, but Chand- ler has had numerous ankle problems in his career.
“It’s more just getting ready, don’t push it,” Karl said before Saturday’s game. “I didn’t see him limping (against Oklahoma City on Friday), but obviously I didn’t think he was as quick as he normally was.”
Chandler scored two points and played 25 minutes against the Thunder on Friday.
Asked if Chandler would play again in the regular season, Karl hedged. “I would say that there’s a possibility he’d play Wednesday (at Utah),” the coach said. “I don’t think he’ll play on Monday (against Golden State).”
Karl praises Martin.
As veteran forward Kenyon Martin continues to play, improving daily after missing the first part of the season because of knee trouble, Karl is more and more impressed.
“His offense has gotten more flow,” Karl said. “He’s getting more involved in situations and circumstances and is still a leader with a defensive attitude.”
Chris Dempsey, The Denver Post
