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Anthony returns from suspension, finally teams with Iverson

Jan 22, 2007 - 5:35 PM Memphis (10-31) at Denver (20-17) 9:00 pm EST

DENVER (Ticker) -- Carmelo Anthony has served his league-mandated penalty and is ready to return to action with a new high-scoring teammate.

The league's leading scorer, Anthony returns from his 15-game suspension Monday when the Denver Nuggets host the woeful Memphis Grizzlies.

Anthony, who averages 31.6 points per game, was disciplined for his role in a brawl against the New York Knicks on December 16. The Nuggets went 7-8 during his absence.

While he was away, Denver acquired four-time scoring champion Allen Iverson from the Philadelphia 76ers. He is third in the NBA in scoring (29.5) and will team with Anthony for the first time Monday.

Denver recorded its third straight win with Saturday's 121-113 overtime triumph over the Houston Rockets. Iverson made 12-of-30 shots, scored 36 points and collected 10 assists, J.R. Smith added 24 points and Marcus Camby grabbed 22 rebounds.

The Grizzlies have dropped four of their last five contests and have surrendered at least 100 points in their last 17 outings.

Memphis lost for the 18th time in 20 road games with Saturday's 112-91 defeat to the Los Angeles Clippers. Pau Gasol scored 27 points and rookie Rudy Gay added 17 for the Grizzlies.

Denver won 17 consecutive home encounters against Memphis before the Grizzlies posted a 108-96 victory here November 28.