--G Anthony Carter got his second straight start at shooting guard Thursday at Portland. Carter was a surprise starter in Wednesday's opener against Utah. Carter looked better Thursday, scoring seven points after managing just two against the Jazz.

--C Nene is being counted on to rebound more this season, and Thursday he delivered. Nene grabbed 11 rebounds at Portland after pulling down just six the night before. Nene averaged a career-high 7.8 rebounds last season, but the Nuggets want him to do even better this season.

--G Chauncey Billups often has the ability to get to the foul line when his jump shot isn't falling. That was the case Thursday at Portland. Billups shot just 5-of-14 from the field, but he was 11-of-12 from the line. It proved pivotal as the Nuggets held on to defeat the Trail Blazers 97-94.

MEDICAL WATCH:

--None.