--G Chauncey Billups struggled in the first half of Saturday's 105-99 win over Phoenix, scoring seven points but committing three turnovers and three fouls. "I told myself I was going to come out and be extremely aggressive in the second half," Billups said. Billups did just that, scoring 17 of his 24 points after intermission and shooting five of eight on 3-pointers in the second half.

--G Chris Andersen was a key for the Nuggets in overcoming a 17-point third-quarter deficit in Saturday's 105-99 win over Phoenix. Andersen had seven of his 10 rebounds in the second half, including five of his seven offensive boards. Andersen kept many of Denver's offensive possessions alive with his ability on the glass.

--G J.R. Smith never got into the groove Saturday against Phoenix , shooting 0-for-8 and scoring two points in 21 minutes. Smith often finishes games. But, with Smith and guard Ty Lawson struggling, Nuggets coach George Karl went with sparingly used Anthony Carter down the stretch. Smith, who shot 0-for-3 from 3-point range, did endear himself to Karl by taking some quick long jumpers.

MEDICAL WATCH:

--F Kenyon Martin returned Saturday against Phoenix after missing two games with a dislocated left pinkie.