Nuggets prevail in Chicago nail-biter

The Denver Nuggets ended their two-game losing streak Tuesday night in dramatic fashion against the Chicago Bulls, 90-89.

The game in Chicago was close from tip-off until the final three-tenths of a second. Brad Miller of the Bulls took the inbounds pass and launched a desperation shot that went in, setting off a raucous celebration on court and in the stands. Problem for the Bulls was that after a five-minute officials review, the shot was waved off. Careful review of instant replay showed Miller’s shot had not left his hand before time expired. Nuggets win.

Carmelo Anthony had a poor shooting night, scoring a season-low 20 points on 8-22 shooting, but play from Kenyon Martin and Nene helped make up the difference. Martin and Nene both logged double-doubles and were a key factor in the win.

Anthony’s struggles came against the Bulls’ opposing bigs, most notably Joakim Noah. Noah clogged the paint and grabbed 21 rebounds against the Nuggets. Luol Deng held Anthony’s jump shot in check and Noah’s presence in the paint reduced Anthony’s effect on the game.

Arron Afflalo got the start at shooting guard, even though J.R. Smith — who suggested he would now like to be known by his given name, Earl – was back from a seven-game suspension. Afflalo had a nice night, contributing 10 points and going 2-3 from 3-point land.

Smith’s return wasn’t impressive on the score sheet. He logged five points and five assists, but his presence allowed Nene and Martin to work one-on-ones down low. Smith also made several unselfish passes that led to critical buckets for the Nuggets.

While Smith’s shot was a little off and much rust was needed to be shed, expect him to come out Wednesday night in Milwaukee and have a much better statistical performance.