Nuggets intent on keeping focus in clash vs. reeling Hornets
The Denver Nuggets will show up Saturday night as one of the top teams in the NBA.
That's not exactly what the Charlotte Hornets need to see.
But the teams will meet in Charlotte, N.C., and perhaps the Hornets will catch the Nuggets distracted by other more high-profile gatherings.
The Nuggets will finish a three-game road swing that includes victories Wednesday vs. Toronto and Friday night against Brooklyn.
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"We are playing better, and that's what makes me happy," Nuggets star Nikola Jokic said.
Denver has won six of its last seven games. After the stopover in Charlotte, the Nuggets have a Christmas Day game against the Golden State Warriors, meaning there will be a quick turnaround ahead for the reigning NBA champions. Denver coach Michael Malone might have to carefully manage minutes after his team's stressful game against the Nets.
"I feel we could have played a lot better as a team," Nuggets guard Jamal Murray said. "Our defense won the game. ... I think we understand what we need to do to win. Especially the rookies are starting to fill their roles more confidently."
The Hornets have a six-game losing streak after returning from an unsuccessful road trip with stops in Toronto and Indiana. They'll be coming off a two-day layoff when they play Saturday night.
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Teams have gone on scoring sprees against the Hornets, who have lost three consecutive home games.
Charlotte hasn't held a team to less than 100 points this season. During the current losing streak, the Hornets have allowed at least 112 points in every game.
"It weighs on you," coach Steve Clifford said of giving up points in bunches. "We don't have that kind of a team right now. We don't have a lot of room for error right now. Our guys know that. It takes its toll."
Guard Terry Rozier has moved into fifth place on Charlotte's all-time scoring list with 5,672 points. He has more than 20 points in nine of his last 10 games.
"He's playing great," Clifford said of Rozier. "He's our most physical player. He's our best competitor by far."
Charlotte rookie Brandon Miller continues to provide solid production. He has reached the 20-point mark in five games and has made an impact with taking charges on defense.
"He puts his body in front of the ball," Clifford said.
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The injury report tends to be a big factor with the Hornets as point guard LaMelo Ball remains out and center Mark Williams has been out with a back injury. Forward Gordon Hayward had missed two games with illness and then was back Wednesday night at Indiana, where he was held in check until posting 10 third-quarter points.
The big injury news could come in regard to swingman Cody Martin, who might make his season debut for Charlotte after knee surgery last season.
After Saturday, the Hornets will be on the road for their next six games beginning with a swing to the Western Coast. That trip also will include a rematch with the Nuggets on New Year's Day.