• Preview
• Recap
• Bleachers

Anthony, Nuggets hope to avoid third straight loss

Mar 30, 2007 - 2:26 PM Denver (35-35) at Phoenix (53-18) 10:00 pm EDT

PHOENIX (Ticker) -- The struggling Denver Nuggets hope to avoid falling under .500 on Friday when they visit the Phoenix Suns.

Since a five-game winning streak, the Nuggets have dropped four of their last five contests, including two straight. They still are seventh in the Western Conference, 1 1/2 games ahead of the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Nuggets returned home from a five-game road trip Wednesday and endured a disappointing 100-97 loss to Seattle. All-Star Carmelo Anthony scored 28 points to pace Denver.

Denver forward Nene has stepped his play of late, averaging 19.7 points, 13.0 rebounds and 1.67 blocks over his last three games. He also is shooting 64 percent (22-of-34) during the stretch.

Already having locked up the Pacific Division title, the Suns lost for the second time in three games with Thursday's 124-119 setback at Golden State. Speedy guard Leandro Barbosa led the way with 27 points off the bench.

The Suns have won 14 of the last 18 meetings at home against Denver dating to the 1996-97 season. They also have won eight of the last 10 matchups between the teams.