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Nuggets, Spurs set for Western Conference battle

Jan 3, 2008 - 2:53 PM San Antonio (21-8) at Denver (18-12) 9:00 pm EST

DENVER (Ticker) - The Denver Nuggets had their winning streak snapped on Sunday, but with a few days to rest, one of the most prolific offenses in the NBA should be back in high gear very soon.

The Nuggets will put their offense to the test when they host the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday in a battle of Western Conference division leaders.

Denver averaged over 118 points during a three-game winning streak last week before dropping a 105-95 decision to Golden State on Sunday. The Nuggets boast the duo of Allen Iverson and Carmelo Anthony, who rank third and fourth, respectively, in the league in scoring.

Points could be hard to come by against the Spurs, however, as the defending NBA Champions allow just 91.9 per game - third best in the league.

San Antonio has been hampered by injuries lately, playing its past three games without sixth man Manu Ginobili, and the last two without sharpshooter Brent Barry. The injuries have shortened the Spurs bench, necessitating the call up of DeMarr Johnson from the D-League.

San Antonio earned a 111-87 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday, holding them below 20 points in the second and third quarters after allowing 32 in the opening frame.

The Spurs won the first meeting between the teams this season, 102-91, on December 16, holding Anthony to just 15 points.