In the News

Nuggets sign Carter, Shelden Williams (AP)
Anthony Carter has signed a one-year league-minimum deal to stay with the Denver Nuggets, who also signed Shelden Williams. Carter, who has played his last four seasons in Denver, averaged 3.3 points and 3.0 rebounds in 54 games last season, spelling Chauncey Billups and Ty Lawson. Williams, a 6-foot-9, 250-pound forward/center, played sparingly for the Boston Celtics last season, averaging 3.7...

Surprised Nuggets start offseason early (AP)
Carmelo Anthony figured first-round playoff failures were old history after reaching the Western Conference championship a year ago. Having advanced to seven straight conference championships, Chauncey Billups never dreamed of flopping in the first round, especially against a Utah Jazz team that was missing two starters and the homecourt advantage.

2010 NBA Playoffs: Denver Nuggets turn to Chauncey Billups to stop Deron Williams of Utah Jazz
The Denver Nuggets will have Chauncey Billups guard Deron Williams from the start of Game 5 against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night.

Billups to defend Williams in Game 5 (AP)
The Denver Nuggets will have Chauncey Billups guard Deron Williams from the start of Game 5 against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night. Williams said after shootaround that he considers himself the best point guard in the NBA right now, and he won't get any argument from the Nuggets. Williams has joined Oscar Robertson (1965), Kevin Johnson (1989) and Magic Johnson (1990) as the only players in...

Jazz on road again to start playoffs (AP)
Instead of opening the playoffs at home, the Jazz are headed east over the Rocky Mountains for a series against division rival Denver. The Nuggets were the Jazz's nemesis this season, winning the first three meetings before Utah avoided a sweep by winning in Salt Lake City on Feb. 6. The Nuggets even won once without stars Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups -- in Utah -- and their 3-1 record...

Down 13 in 4th, Nuggets rally by Thunder (AP)
Chauncey Billups scored 31 points and Carmelo Anthony added 24 as the Denver Nuggets charged back from a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter to beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 98-94 on Wednesday night. The Nuggets held Oklahoma City without a basket for the final 9 minutes while finishing the game on a 22-5 run to pick up a crucial road win in their chase for the No.

Nuggets rally from 21 down, top Clippers (AP)
Down by 21 points in the second quarter, the Denver Nuggets turned what had the earmarks of a lopsided loss into their biggest comeback victory of the season. Carmelo Anthony scored 24 points and the Nuggets rallied past the Los Angeles Clippers, 98-90 on Saturday night. "You learn a lot about your team in those situations," said Chauncey Billups, who chipped in 14 points for the Nuggets.

'Melo beats buzzer, Nuggets top Raptors (AP)
Carmelo Anthony buried an 18-foot fadeaway at the buzzer to lead the Denver Nuggets to a come-from-behind 97-96 win over the Toronto Raptors on Friday night. After Anthony missed his first attempt, the loose ball was batted to Nene. He swung it to Chauncey Billups, who fed Anthony inside the arc. Anthony dribbled once and hoisted a jumper that dropped through as the horn sounded.

Bucks beat Nuggets despite late night (AP)
The fans sure expected a bleary-eyed, weary-legged Milwaukee Bucks team to show up at the Pepsi Center, where the Denver Nuggets were 30-5. Chauncey Billups swears he knew better, even though he and his Denver teammates were powerless to do anything about it in a 102-97 loss Saturday night to the Bucks, who didn't arrive in their hotel rooms until 3 a.m.

Nuggets win sixth straight behind Smith (AP)
J.R. Smith scored 19 of his 30 points in the second half, rallying the Denver Nuggets to a 125-108 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday night. Smith was 11 of 16 from the field, including 7 for 10 on 3-pointers, to help the Nuggets win their sixth straight. Carmelo Anthony finished with 24 points and Chauncey Billups added 22 for Denver.

Anthony leads Nuggets to fifth straight (AP)
Carmelo Anthony had 32 points and 12 rebounds, and the Denver Nuggets extended their winning streak to five with a 102-95 victory over the New Orleans Hornets on Friday night. Chauncey Billups scored 21 points for Denver, which finished with a flourish to break open an 86-all tie with 6:05 to go. Nene added 17 points and 12 rebounds, while Johan Petro had 10 points and 10 rebounds.

Billups helps Nuggets rally past Wolves (AP)

Chauncey Billups scored 25 points and got a huge lift from role players Chris Andersen, Nene and J.R. Smith in the Denver Nuggets' 110-102 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night. Andersen had 14 points and 10 rebounds, Nene had 17 points and nine boards and Smith scored 15 to shake the Nuggets out a first-half funk and deliver their fourth straight win.

Anthony scores 30 as Nuggets top Blazers (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored 30 points -- his third consecutive game with at least 30 points -- and the Denver Nuggets beat the Portland Trail Blazers 118-106 Sunday night for their third straight victory. J.R. Smith added 22 points, Chauncey Billups had 21 points and Nene 14 for the Nuggets, who improved to 28-5 at the Pepsi Center, the third-best home record in the NBA behind Cleveland and the Los...

Anthony's 34 carry short-handed Nuggets (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored 34 points and the Denver Nuggets overcame the injury-related absences of Kenyon Martin and Ty Lawson to beat the Indiana Pacers 122-114 on Friday night. J.R. Smith added 20 points off the bench and Chauncey Billups had 14 for the Nuggets, who sent the Pacers to their fifth loss in a row on the road.

Reserves spark Suns' surge past Nuggets (AP)

Amare Stoudemire had 19 points and 10 rebounds, and the reserves keyed a big second quarter for the Phoenix Suns in a 101-85 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Monday night. Goran Dragic scored 10 first-half points off the bench and the reserves had 24 of 33 second-quarter points, when the Suns quickly erased an early double-digit deficit.

Billups fires Nuggets to rare win over Pistons
Chauncey Billups scored 25 points, Carmelo Anthony added 24 and the Denver Nuggets snapped a seven-game losing streak to the Detroit Pistons with a 107-102 victory Friday night.

Nuggets end 7-game skid against Pistons (AP)

Chauncey Billups scored 25 points, Carmelo Anthony added 24 and the Denver Nuggets snapped a seven-game losing streak to the Detroit Pistons with a 107-102 victory Friday night. J.R. Smith added 15 points and Arron Afflalo had 14 for the Nuggets, who beat the Pistons for the first time in four years. Joey Graham, who with Malik Allen played in place of the injured Kenyon Martin (knee contusion),...

Nuggets finish off Warriors without coach Karl
Chauncey Billups had 37 points and nine rebounds, Carmelo Anthony added 27 points and Denver beat Golden State 127-112 on Thursday night in the Nuggets' first game without coach George Karl since he revealed he has throat cancer.

Billups' 37 lift Nuggets without Karl (AP)

Denver's Chauncey Billups chatted amicably with an antagonizing fan in the crowd, then casually strolled over to the home team's bench and hugged Golden State trainer Tom Abdenour. That's how easy and relaxed the Nuggets were in their first game without coach George Karl since he revealed he has neck and throat cancer.

Smith's 16 in 4th lifts Nuggets by Celts (AP)

J.R. Smith scored 16 of his 19 points in the fourth quarter and the Denver Nuggets recovered from blowing an early 20-point lead to beat the Boston Celtics 114-105 Sunday. Chauncey Billups had 26 points and Carmelo Anthony had 23 for the Nuggets, who avoided back-to-back losses for the first time since late December with the victory over the NBA's top road team.

Billups sinks Lakers with career-high 39 points
Chauncey Billups tied his career-high with 37 points, including nine 3-pointers, and the Denver Nuggets defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 126-113 Friday night, ending the Lakers' eight-game home winning streak.

Billups' 39 power Nuggets over Lakers (AP)

Chauncey Billups scored a career-high 39 points, including nine 3-pointers, and the Denver Nuggets defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 126-113 Friday night, ending the Lakers' eight-game home winning streak. Billups was 12 of 20 from the floor, 9 of 13 from 3-point range and made 6 of 8 free throws to go with eight assists for the Nuggets, who played without Carmelo Anthony for the seventh...

Denver Nuggets guard Chauncey Billups sits out vs. Utah Jazz
Denver guard Chauncey Billups missed the Nuggets' game at Utah on Saturday with a sprained ankle, one night after scoring a career-high 39 points.

Billups, Pierce headline 3-point contest field
All-Stars Paul Pierce of Boston and Chauncey Billups of Denver headline the field for the 3-point contest.

Pierce, Billups headline 3-point field (AP)
All-Stars Paul Pierce of Boston and Chauncey Billups of Denver headline the field for the 3-point contest. Also chosen for the field Friday were defending champion Daequan Cook of Miami, Golden State rookie Stephen Curry, New York's Danilo Gallinari and Phoenix center Channing Frye. Cook scored 19 points in an overtime round to beat Orlando's Rashard Lewis last year.

Paul Pierce, Chauncey Billups highlight Three-Point Shootout competitors
All-Stars Paul Pierce of the Boston Celtics and Chauncey Billups of the Denver Nuggets headline the field for the NBA Three-Point Shootout.

Denver Nuggets injuries: Chauncey Billups toplay, Carmelo Anthony questionable vs. Phoenix Suns
Chauncey Billups will be in the Denver Nuggets' lineup against the Phoenix Suns but Carmelo Anthony's status is a game-time decision.

Afflalo's jumper lifts Nuggets in OT (AP)

Arron Afflalo hit a 21-foot baseline jumper with 18.4 seconds left in overtime, and the Denver Nuggets, down by 17 points in the third quarter, rallied to beat the Sacramento Kings 112-109 Monday night. Kenyon Martin had 24 points and 12 rebounds and Chauncey Billups had 23 points for the Nuggets, who improved to 3-0 in overtime this season and averted being swept in their three-game season series...

Nuggets overcome missing Melo to stop Bobcats
Chauncey Billups scored 27 points, Aaron Afflalo matched his career high with 24 points and the depleted Denver Nuggets beat the Charlotte Bobcats 104-93 for their season-high seventh straight win.

Depleted Nuggets win seventh straight (AP)

Chauncey Billups scored 27 points, Aaron Afflalo matched his career high with 24 points and the depleted Denver Nuggets beat the Charlotte Bobcats 104-93 for their season-high seventh straight win. Stephen Jackson had 22 points and Gerald Wallace added 20 for the Bobcats, who lost their third in a row since a franchise-tying six-game winning streak.

Anthony leads Nuggets past Hornets in OT (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored four of his 30 points in overtime and added 11 rebounds and the Denver Nuggets beat the New Orleans Hornets 116-110 on Saturday night for their season-high sixth straight victory. Kenyon Martin added 20 points and 14 rebounds, and Chauncey Billups had 20 points and nine assists, and Arron Afflalo had 19 points, hitting two 3-pointers in overtime.

Billups' surge helps Nuggets to big win vs. Clips
Chauncey Billups scored 13 of his 20 points in the third quarter to break open a tight game, and the Denver Nuggets beat the Los Angeles Clippers 105-85 on Thursday night for their fifth straight victory.

Nuggets top Clips, push win streak to 5 (AP)

Chauncey Billups scored 13 of his 20 points in the third quarter to break open a tight game, and the Denver Nuggets beat the Los Angeles Clippers 105-85 on Thursday night for their fifth straight victory. Carmelo Anthony, selected as a starter for the All-Star game in fan balloting announced earlier Thursday, had 28 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Nuggets, whose winning streak matched a season...

Billups scores 37, lifts Nuggets in OT (AP)

Chauncey Billups matched his career high with 37 points, including 10 in overtime, and the Denver Nuggets beat the Golden State Warriors 123-118 on Wednesday night for their fourth straight victory. Billups made a pair of 3-pointers in overtime and two free throws with 22 seconds left, but Denver wasn't able to shake the limping Warriors until the final minute.

Billups matches career high in Nuggets' OT win
Chauncey Billups matched his career high with 37 points, including 10 in overtime, and the Denver Nuggets beat the Golden State Warriors 123-118 on Wednesday night for their fourth straight victory.

Carmelo, Billups power Nuggets past Jazz
The Denver Nuggets unveiled their new two-point guard look Sunday night with Chauncey Billups and rookie Ty Lawson. The results were impressive with Billups scoring 29 points to go with Carmelo Anthony's 37 in a 119-112 win over Utah that snapped the Jazz's winning streak at four.

Anthony's 37 lift Nuggets over Jazz (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored 37 points and Chauncey Billups added 29 in the Denver Nuggets' 119-112 win over Utah that snapped a four-game winning streak by the Jazz on Sunday night. Ty Lawson returned to Denver's rotation after missing four games with a sprained ankle and helped steady a sometimes erratic offense, scoring 11 points and dishing out an assist.

Anthony, Billups lead Nuggets past rolling Jazz
Carmelo Anthony scored 37 points and Chauncey Billups added 29 in the Nuggets' 119-112 win over Utah.

Pistons might be active before deadline (AP)

The Detroit Pistons might be making some changes. Joe Dumars, the team's president of basketball operations, told The Associated Press on Thursday that he is looking for long-term solutions. The team might be active before next month's trade deadline. Detroit was expected to endure a rebuilding season after dealing Chauncey Billups last season, then losing Rasheed Wallace and Antonio McDyess...

Melo powers streaking Nuggets past Magic
Carmelo Anthony scored 27 points and Chauncey Billups added 24 to lead the Denver Nuggets to a 115-97 victory over the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night.

Anthony, Billups lead Nuggets over Magic (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored 27 points and Chauncey Billups added 24 to lead the Denver Nuggets to a 115-97 victory over the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night. It was Denver's fourth win in five games, including victories over fellow division leaders Orlando and Cleveland. Matt Barnes scored a season-high 28 points for Orlando.

Chauncey Billups returns to Denver Nuggets; Carmelo Anthony still doubtful
Chauncey Billups will be back on the court for the injury-riddled Denver Nuggets against the Cleveland Cavaliers, but Carmelo Anthony remains doubtbful.

Nuggets without injured Chauncey Billups, Carmelo Anthony again
Injured starters Chauncy Billups and Carmelo Anthony were out for the Nuggets on Sunday.

Billups, Anthony to sit again vs. 76ers (AP)
The Denver Nuggets will be without their two leading scorers for the second straight night. Chauncey Billups (left groin strain) and Carmelo Anthony (right knee contusion) will miss Sunday night's matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers. Billups injured his left groin against Houston on Dec. 16 and has missed six of the last seven games.

Lawson, Nuggets top Jazz to end 3-game skid
Ty Lawson had 23 points and nine assists and the Denver Nuggets ended a three-game losing streak despite playing without injured stars Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups, beating the Utah Jazz 105-95 on Saturday night

Lawson gets Anthony-less Nuggets by Jazz (AP)

Ty Lawson had 23 points and nine assists and the Denver Nuggets ended a three-game losing streak despite playing without injured stars Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups, beating the Utah Jazz 105-95 on Saturday night The Nuggets compensated for missing such a huge chunk of their offense with gritty defense, forcing Utah into a season-high 26 turnovers.

Week 11 Fantasy Basketball Planner
When will owners see Chauncey Billups and Ron Artest? How will the Gilbert Arenas situation impact Fantasy in Week 11 and beyond? Sergio Gonzalez breaks down the latest news from around the league in his Fantasy Planner.




Denver Nuggets sideline Carmelo Anthony, Chauncey Billups against Jazz
Denver forward Carmelo Anthony missed his first game of the season Saturday with a right knee contusion.

Nuggets' Anthony, Billups to miss game (AP)
Denver forward Carmelo Anthony missed his first game of the season Saturday with a right knee contusion. The Nuggets were also without point guard Chauncey Billups against the Utah Jazz. Billups did not dress and sat out for the fifth time in six games with a left groin strain. Anthony is second in the league in scoring at 30 points per game.

Mavericks defeat Billups-less Nuggets (AP)

Drew Gooden scored 19 points and Dirk Nowitzki hit a clutch 3-pointer late in the game, lifting the Mavericks to a 104-96 win Sunday night over a Denver Nuggets squad missing All-Star guard Chauncey Billups. Dallas handed the league's best home team a rare loss as the Nuggets fell to 13-2 at the Pepsi Center.

Denver Nuggets guard Chauncey Billups to sit 2 games with groin injury
Nuggets guard Chauncey Billups will miss two games to give his strained left groin time to heal.

Roy, Billups may miss Christmas matchup (AP)
A marquee Christmas matchup between the Portland Trail Blazers and Denver Nuggets may lose some luster if Portland's Brandon Roy and Denver's Chauncey Billups are both out. It's unclear if either guard will be available Friday night when the Northwest Division rivals meet for the second time this season.

Smith has 41 with 10 3s to lift Nuggets (AP)

J.R. Smith came off the bench to score a season-high 41 points, hitting 10 3-pointers, and the Denver Nuggets beat the Atlanta Hawks 124-104 Wednesday night. Carmelo Anthony added 24 points and rookie Ty Lawson, starting in place of the injured Chauncey Billups (groin), had 16, helping Denver win its sixth in a row at home.

Denver Nuggets' Chauncey Billups out with groin strain vs. Hornets
Chauncey Billups has been scratched from the Denver Nuggets' game against the New Orleans Hornets because of a left groin strain.

Groin sidelines Billups vs. Hornets (AP)
Chauncey Billups has been scratched from the Denver Nuggets' game against the New Orleans Hornets because of a left groin strain. The injury occurred in the second quarter of Denver's game in Houston on Wednesday. Anthony Carter started at point guard in Billups' place Friday night. Billups is averaging 17.4 points and 5.7 assists this season for the Nuggets.

Melo has 38 to lift Nuggets after Billups is hurt
Carmelo Anthony scored 38 to make up for the loss of Chauncey Billups in the Nuggets' win on Wednesday.

Billups injures groin in Nuggets' win (AP)

Drawing on their depth and leaning once again on Carmelo Anthony's offense, the Denver Nuggets withstood the loss of Chauncey Billups to a groin injury for a 111-101 victory over the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night. They may soon face more tests without their star point guard. Anthony scored 38 points, his fifth straight 30-plus point performance, and the Nuggets were able to win despite...

Chauncey Billups of Denver Nuggets questionable for Friday with groin injury
Point guard Chauncey Billups might miss the Denver Nuggets' game at New Orleans on Friday night because of a strained left groin.

Nuggets' Billups questionable for Friday (AP)
Point guard Chauncey Billups might miss the Denver Nuggets' game at New Orleans on Friday night because of a strained left groin. Billups was hurt in the second half of Denver's win over the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night. He underwent a precautionary MRI on Thursday that confirmed a strain of his left adductor muscle, and the team said he was day-to-day.

Nuggets knock back Suns behind Carmelo's 32
Carmelo Anthony scored 32 points and Chauncey Billups shook off an awful first half to lead the Denver Nuggets past the Phoenix Suns 105-99 Saturday night.

Nuggets erase 17-point deficit, top Suns (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored 32 points and Chauncey Billups shook off an awful first half to lead the Denver Nuggets past the Phoenix Suns 105-99 Saturday night. Billups, whose first half included three turnovers and three fouls, scored 24 points and sank five 3-pointers in the second half. His turnover with 30 seconds left and the Nuggets leading 101-99 however gave the Suns a shot at a rare win in...

Pistons prevail vs. Nuggets despite Anthony's 40
Charlie Villanueva scored 27 points, and Rodney Stuckey had 26 to help the banged-up Detroit Pistons hold on for a 101-99 victory over former teammate Chauncey Billups and the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night.

Pistons win after Billups' late miss (AP)
Charlie Villanueva scored 27 points, and Rodney Stuckey had 26 to help the banged-up Detroit Pistons hold on for a 101-99 victory over former teammate Chauncey Billups and the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night. Billups missed a layup in the final seconds, allowing the Pistons to run their winning streak to a season-best four games.

Billups, Nuggets spoil Iverson's return to Philly
Chauncey Billups scored 31 points and Carmelo Anthony had 14 to help the Nuggets spoil Allen Iverson's return to Philadelphia with a 93-83 win over the 76ers on Monday night.

Nuggets ruin Iverson's return to Philly (AP)

Chauncey Billups and Denver ruined Allen Iverson's homecoming. Billups scored 31 points and Carmelo Anthony had 14 to help the Nuggets spoil Iverson's return to Philadelphia with a 93-83 win over the 76ers on Monday night. The Nuggets went on a 22-3 run over the third and fourth quarters to rally for their fourth straight win.

Anthony's 34 lift Nuggets over Spurs (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored 34 points and the Denver Nuggets ran away from the San Antonio Spurs in the fourth quarter in a 106-99 victory Saturday night. Chauncey Billups added 18 points as Denver took the lead to start the fourth after trailing virtually the entire game, then never gave it back to San Antonio.

Anthony posts 25 as Nuggets race past Warriors
Carmelo Anthony scored 25 points, Chauncey Billups had 22 and the Denver Nuggets used their biggest scoring first half of the season to pull away from the short-handed Golden State Warriors for a 135-107 victory Tuesday night.

Anthony, Billups pace Nuggets in rout (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored 25 points, Chauncey Billups had 22 and the Denver Nuggets used their biggest scoring first half of the season to pull away from the short-handed Golden State Warriors for a 135-107 victory Tuesday night. Nene (18 points) and Chris Andersen (14) were among seven Denver players scoring in double figures, helping the Nuggets finish with a season high for points and rebound...

Nuggets hand Wolves 14th straight loss (AP)

Even in the Minnesota Timberwolves' loss-filled existence, they have never been this bad to start a season. Carmelo Anthony scored 22 points and Nene had 17 points, eight rebounds and six assists as the Denver Nuggets handed the Timberwolves their 14th straight loss with a 124-111 victory on Wednesday night.

Clips overcome Anthony's 37, top Nuggets (AP)

Reserve forward Rasual Butler scored 27 points, Al Thornton added 18 and the Los Angeles Clippers withstood an early scoring spree from Carmelo Anthony to beat the Denver Nuggets 106-99 on Friday night. Chris Kaman had 13 points, seven rebounds and six assists for the Clippers. The Nuggets, coming off one-sided victories over the Lakers and Toronto Raptors, lost to the Clippers for the first time...

Melo helps Nuggets keep home win streak alive
Carmelo Anthony scored 30 points and Chauncey Billups had 21, leading the Denver Nuggets to a 112-93 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night.

Anthony, Billups lead Nuggets over Bulls (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored 30 points and Chauncey Billups had 21, leading the Denver Nuggets to a 112-93 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night. It was the 15th straight regular-season home win for the Nuggets, including all five this season as Denver bounced back from Friday night's loss in Los Angeles to the Clippers.

Billups' FT holds up as Bulls' final shot waved off
Chauncey Billups hit the go-ahead free throw with six-tenths of a second left and the Denver Nuggets beat the Chicago Bulls 90-89 on Tuesday night after a potential winning jumper by Brad Miller was overturned following a replay review.

Nuggets win when refs overturn Miller's shot
Chauncey Billups hit the go-ahead free throw with six-tenths of a second left and the Denver Nuggets beat the Chicago Bulls 90-89 on Tuesday night after a potential winning jumper by Brad Miller was overturned following a replay review. Billups was fouled by Kirk Hinrich on a drive and then intentionally missed the second free throw after making the first to break the tie. Joakim Noah grabbed the rebound, and the Bulls nearly pulled it off.

Nuggets top Bulls 90-89 with replay help (AP)

Chauncey Billups hit the go-ahead free throw with six-tenths of a second left and the Denver Nuggets beat the Chicago Bulls 90-89 on Tuesday night after a potential winning jumper by Brad Miller was overturned following a replay review. Billups was fouled by Kirk Hinrich on a drive and then intentionally missed the second free throw after making the first to break the tie.

Josh Smith shines as Hawks rout Nuggets (AP)

Jamal Crawford scored 25 points, and Josh Smith had 22 points, nine rebounds, six blocked shots and seven assists in the Atlanta Hawks' 125-100 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Saturday night. Smith was 8 of 10 from the field and 6 of 8 from the line. Joe Johnson added 21 points, Marvin Williams had 14, Mo Evans 12 and Al Horford and Mike Bibby 11 each for the Hawks.

Nuggets score 44 in 3rd, stay unbeaten (AP)

Down by a point after sub-par first-half performances by Chauncey Billups and Carmelo Anthony, the Denver Nuggets become the latest team to take advantage of the New Jersey Nets' woes in the third quarter. Billups and Anthony woke up the Nuggets by leading a 44-point third-quarter assault that carried unbeaten Denver to its fifth straight win, a 122-94 decision over the victory over the...

Melo, Billups lead unbeaten Nuggets past Pacers
Carmelo Anthony scored 25 points and Chauncey Billups added 24 to help Denver beat the Indiana Pacers 111-93 on Tuesday night, lifting the Nuggets to their best start in 24 years.

Nuggets off to best start in 24 years (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored 25 points and Chauncey Billups added 24 to help Denver beat the Indiana Pacers 111-93 on Tuesday night, lifting the Nuggets to their best start in 24 years. Anthony, who was averaging 38 points, shot just 6-for-17 from the field but made 11 of 14 free throws. Nene added 16 points and 13 rebounds for the Nuggets (4-0), who are off to their best start since the 1985-86 season.

Anthony scores 41, Nuggets edge Blazers (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored 19 of his 41 points in the fourth quarter and the Denver Nuggets were helped by Portland's trouble at the free-throw line for a 97-94 victory on Thursday night. Greg Oden missed a pair of free throws with 4.6 seconds left, squandering a chance for Portland to go ahead. After Oden's misses, Anthony made a pair and Brandon Roy missed a 3-pointer at the buzzer for the...

Anthony scores 30, Nuggets beat Jazz (AP)

Carmelo Anthony had a game-high 30 points and rookie Ty Lawson scored seven of his 17 points in a pivotal fourth-quarter run, lifting the Denver Nuggets to a season-opening 114-105 win over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night. Chauncey Billups finished with 25 while Kenyon Martin added 16 points and 11 rebounds.

Rookie Lawson's 29 get Nuggets by Lakers (AP)

Rookie Ty Lawson had 29 points, six assists and five steals to help the Denver Nuggets beat the Los Angeles Lakers 119-105 on Friday night in the exhibition finale for both teams. The Nuggets (4-4) played without Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups after coach George Karl gave them the night off, while the Lakers (6-2) were without 7-footers Pau Gasol (strained right hamstring) and Andrew Bynum...

Short-handed Lakers roll past Nuggets (AP)

Playing without their injured inside duo of 7-footers Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum, the Los Angeles Lakers routed the Denver Nuggets 106-89 in an exhibition game Thursday night. Kobe Bryant had 23 points for the Lakers (6-1), while Lamar Odom had 17 points and nine rebounds. Carmelo Anthony scored 28 points for the Nuggets (3-4), while Chauncey Billups added 19.

Anthony, Afflalo lead Nuggets by Wolves (AP)

Growing up, Carmelo Anthony rarely settled for jump shots. It was frowned upon in his neighborhood. "As a kid I always drove to the hole," he said. "Where I grew up if you shot a jump shot it wasn't accepted." Anthony went back to his roots Tuesday night, mixing in driving layups and a couple of jump shots to score 24 points to lead the Denver Nuggets to a 129-100 preseason...

Nuggets beat Suns 119-113 in OT (AP)
Chauncey Billups scored five of his game-high 26 points in overtime and the Denver Nuggets beat the Phoenix Suns 119-113 on Thursday night. Nene had 17 points and 14 rebounds and Kenyon Martin had 24 points, including a clinching 3-pointer with 29.6 seconds left in overtime. Martin also had eight rebounds and a career-high seven steals for Denver, which has won seven of eight.

Nuggets overcome Dirk's 44, beat Mavs (AP)

Chauncey Billups made two free throws with 2.2 seconds left, and the Denver Nuggets overcame 44 points from Dirk Nowitzki to beat the Dallas Mavericks 99-97 on Tuesday night. Billups scored 23 points and Nene had 20 to lead a balanced attack that helped Denver recover after blowing a 17-point lead. Jason Terry had 16 points for the Mavericks, who have lost three straight.

Pistons win in AI's return to Denver (AP)

Tayshaun Prince hit a running jumper with 20 seconds left, Aaron Afflalo hit six straight free throws after that, and the Detroit Pistons overcame 30 points by Chauncey Billups to beat the Denver Nuggets 93-90 on Friday night in Allen Iverson's return to the Mile High city. Iverson, making his first appearance in Denver since being traded to Detroit for Billups, Antonio McDyess and Cheikh Samb on...

Iverson: Return to Denver 'just another game'
Allen Iverson isn't exactly emotional over his only trip this season to the Mile High City, certainly not like Chauncey Billups will be when he returns to the Motor City in two months.

Iverson ho-hum about return to Denver (AP)
Allen Iverson isn't exactly emotional over his only trip this season to the Mile High City, certainly not like Chauncey Billups will be when he returns to the Motor City in two months. "It's just another game for me. I've been in the league 13 years," Iverson said of Friday night's game at the Pepsi Center between Detroit and Denver, who teamed up in November for the season's biggest trade.

'Melo-less Nuggets win fifth straight (AP)

Chauncey Billups, Linas Kleiza and J.R. Smith scored 21 points apiece to help the Denver Nuggets win their fifth straight game, 108-97 over the Miami Heat on Wednesday night. Kenyon Martin and Nene scored 14 points each for Denver in the Nuggets' seventh victory in eight games. Denver played without scoring leader Carmelo Anthony, out at least three weeks after fracturing a finger on his right hand...

Nuggets coach Karl earns 900th victory (AP)

Nene scored 21 points, Carmelo Anthony added 20 and the Denver Nuggets beat the Toronto Raptors 114-107 on Wednesday night. Chauncey Billups scored 18 points and J.R. Smith had 16 for Denver, with Kenyon Martin adding 15 points and reserves Linas Kleiza and Chris Andersen each scoring 10. Denver coach George Karl earned his 900th career regular-season victory.

Down 17, Nuggets use 15 3s to top 76ers (AP)

Kenyon Martin took a bounce pass from Chauncey Billups and drove for the go-ahead dunk with 9 seconds left Friday night to lift the Denver Nuggets to a 105-101 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. Andre Iguodala of the 76ers got called for traveling on the next possession and Andre Miller got hit with a technical foul with 2.9 seconds left.

Nene, Billups help Nuggets top Blazers (AP)

Nene scored 19 points and had 11 rebounds, Chauncey Billups added 19 points and 10 assists, and the Denver Nuggets overcame the absence of Carmelo Anthony to beat the Portland Trail Blazers 97-89 on Monday night. Five players scored in double figures for the Nuggets, who ended a three-game losing streak.

Nash sparks Suns to victory over Nuggets (AP)

Steve Nash scored eight straight points in the final 3 minutes and the Phoenix Suns beat the Denver Nuggets for the eighth straight time at home, 108-101 on Saturday night. Nash's first big basket gave the Suns a 101-98 lead. After Chauncey Billups tied it with a 3-pointer, Nash connected on two 3-pointers, giving Phoenix a 107-101 lead.

Nuggets top Mavs for fourth straight win (AP)
Reserve J.R. Smith scored 25 points, Carmelo Anthony added 23, and the Denver Nuggets beat the Dallas Mavericks 98-88 on Monday night to extend their winning streak to four games. Chauncey Billups had 15 points and eight assists for the Nuggets, who have won seven of eight and improved to 16-4 since Billups joined the team after a Nov.

'Melo, Billups help Nuggets top Warriors (AP)

Carmelo Anthony had 27 points and nine rebounds, Chauncey Billups added 16 points and 11 assists, and the Denver Nuggets beat the Golden State Warriors 123-105 on Saturday night. Kenyon Martin, who returned to the lineup after missing two games with a sprained left wrist, had 15 points for the Nuggets, who had six players score in double figures.

McDyess back with Pistons a month after trade
Antonio McDyess has re-signed with the Detroit Pistons a month after being dealt to Denver as part of the Allen Iverson trade. The Pistons announced Tuesday that McDyess was back for the rest of the season, but did not disclose financial terms of the deal. Detroit sent McDyess, Chauncey Billups and Cheikh Samb to Denver for Iverson on Nov. 3. The Nuggets waived McDyess a short time later, and he had to wait 30 days before rejoining the Pistons.img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/Foxsports/rss/NBA/~4/480162478" height="1" width="1"/

McDyess back in Detroit a month after being traded
Antonio McDyess has re-signed with the Detroit Pistons a month after being dealt to Denver as part of the Allen Iverson trade. The Pistons announced Tuesday that McDyess was back for the rest of the season, but did not disclose financial terms of the deal. Detroit sent McDyess, Chauncey Billups and Cheikh Samb to Denver for Iverson on Nov. 3. The Nuggets waived McDyess a short time later, and he had to wait 30 days before rejoining the Pistons.img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/Foxsports/rss/NBA/~4/479739072" height="1" width="1"/

Nuggets bounce back from loss, rip Kings (AP)

Chauncey Billups scored 24 points to help the Denver Nuggets beat Sacramento 118-85 on Saturday night, the Kings' eighth straight loss. Denver raced to a 24-8 lead, was ahead by 21 points at the half, and never allowed the cold-shooting Kings to get close in the second half. It was the fourth win in five games for the Nuggets, 7-4 on the road this season.

Spurs cool off Billups, Nuggets 108-91 (AP)
Tony Parker scored 22 points, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili each added 21 and the San Antonio Spurs took advantage of a rare poor performance by Chauncey Billups since he arrived in Denver to whip the Nuggets 108-91 on Thursday night. The Nuggets had won 12 of 15 since acquiring Billups from Detroit in the Allen Iverson trade.

Billups leads Nuggets in rout of Raptors (AP)
Thanks to Chauncey Billups, Carmelo Anthony doesn't have to shoulder the Denver Nuggets' offense while grappling with an ailing right elbow. Billups had 24 points and 14 assists in Denver's 132-93 rout of the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday night in a game that was out of reach by halftime. After a slow start, Anthony finished with 23 points 48 hours after scoring just one bucket in 14 agonizing minutes...

Anthony scores 2 points but Nuggets win (AP)
The Denver Nuggets didn't need Carmelo Anthony's usual double-digit performance to beat the Houston Rockets 104-94 Sunday night. Chauncey Billups scored 28 points, including 11 in a 19-7 third-quarter run the Nuggets used to break away from the Rockets, who played their third straight game without injured star Tracy McGrady (sore left foot).

Billups' 27 in 3 quarters lift Nuggets (AP)

Chauncey Billups scored a season-high 27 points in three quarters, Carmelo Anthony added 25 points and 10 rebounds, and the Denver Nuggets beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 106-97 on Saturday night. Linas Kleiza added 15 points, and Anthony Carter had 12 for Denver. The Nuggets have beaten Minnesota seven straight times and 12 of 15.

Agent: Antonio McDyess will re-sign with Pistons
Antonio McDyess is coming back to play for the Detroit Pistons. "After long deliberation Antonio has decided that he will return to the Pistons," Andy Miller, McDyess' agent, informed The Associated Press via text message Sunday night. Detroit dealt McDyess, Chauncey Billups and project Cheikh Samb to Denver for Allen Iverson on Nov. 3. The cost-cutting Nuggets waived McDyess a week later and he has to wait until 30 days have passed since the trade to rejoin the Pistons.img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/Foxsports/rss/NBA/~4/463561199" height="1" width="1"/

Nuggets move to 8-2 since Billups trade (AP)

Kenyon Martin scored 26 points, Carmelo Anthony had 21 points and 13 rebounds, and the Denver Nuggets beat the Chicago Bulls 114-101 on Sunday night. Chauncey Billups and Nene also added 21 points as Denver moved to 8-2 since the acquisition of Billups. Trailing 99-96 with just over 5 minutes remaining, the Nuggets went on a 13-0 run, fueled by a 3-pointer and dunk by Anthony, to seal their fifth...

Agent: McDyess to re-sign with Pistons (AP)
Antonio McDyess is coming back to play for the Detroit Pistons. Andy Miller, McDyess' agent, confirmed Sunday the former All-Star and Olympian will re-sign with the Pistons next month. Detroit dealt McDyess, Chauncey Billups and project Cheikh Samb to Denver for Allen Iverson on Nov. 3. The cost-cutting Nuggets waived McDyess a week after obtaining him and he has to wait until 30 days have passed...

Billups already helping to stabilize Nuggets
Chauncey Billups provides a steadying hand to the free-wheeling Nuggets. Charley Rosen says the trade is paying dividends.img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/Foxsports/rss/NBA/~4/462079916" height="1" width="1"/

Celtics roll past Iverson, Pistons 98-80 (AP)

Rajon Rondo had 18 points and eight assists, outplaying new Pistons acquisition Allen Iverson and leading the Boston Celtics to a 98-80 victory over Detroit on Thursday night in a rematch of last season's Eastern Conference finals. Iverson had 16 points and four assists for Detroit, which fell to 4-3 since he was acquired from Denver for Chauncey Billups and Antonio McDyess.

Billups' 22 help Nuggets cruise by Spurs (AP)

Chauncey Billups scored 22 points, Carmelo Anthony added 21 and the surging Denver Nuggets cruised to a 91-81 victory Wednesday night over the injury-riddled San Antonio Spurs. Kenyon Martin added 18 points and Nene had 16 to round out a balanced attack by the Nuggets (8-4), who have won four straight and seven of eight.

Nuggets score season high, beat Bucks (AP)

The high-flying, high-scoring Denver Nuggets didn't leave town with Allen Iverson, after all. Although the new model features a stingy defense and an effective halfcourt offense engineered by Chauncey Billups, there's still some pop left in the lineup to light up the scoreboards. Linas Kleiza scored 25 points and Carmelo Anthony had 17 and the Nuggets whipped Milwaukee 114-105 Tuesday night.

Nuggets extend Timberwolves' slide to 8 (AP)

Chauncey Billups scored 26 points, J.R. Smith had eight of his 14 points in a decisive fourth-quarter stretch and the Denver Nuggets overcame poor shooting to hand Minnesota its eighth straight loss, 90-84 on Sunday night. Carmelo Anthony added 14 points and 12 rebounds to help Denver improve to 5-1 since the Nuggets acquired Billups in the trade that sent Allen Iverson to Detroit.

Nuggets beat Celts, now 4-1 with Billups (AP)

Since his trade to the Denver Nuggets, Chauncey Billups has done something customary for him. Win. The Nuggets are 4-1 since Billups' arrived after a Nov. 3 trade with the Pistons. And on Friday night, the Nuggets added a statement game to their resume, beating the defending NBA champion Boston Celtics 94-85.

Nuggets improve to 3-0 with Billups (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored 18 of his 25 points in the second half, Chauncey Billups added a key three-point play late, and the Denver Nuggets held off the Charlotte Bobcats 88-80 on Tuesday night to stay unbeaten with Billups in the lineup. It was Billups' second trip to Charlotte in just over a week. He had a much more pleasant day this time around.

Nuggets waive McDyess week after Billups trade
The Nuggets have waived Antonio McDyess, one week after they obtained him from Detroit along with Chauncey Billups and Cheikh Samb in a swap for Allen Iverson. McDyess hasn't played any games for the Nuggets since the trade.img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/Foxsports/rss/NBA/~4/448782988" height="1" width="1"/

Nuggets waive McDyess 1 week after trade (AP)
The Nuggets have waived Antonio McDyess, one week after they obtained him from Detroit along with Chauncey Billups and Cheikh Samb in a swap for Allen Iverson. McDyess hasn't played any games for the Nuggets since the trade.

Anthony helps Nuggets get past Grizzlies (AP)

Carmelo Anthony scored 24 points, Chauncey Billups had 16 points and 10 assists and the Denver Nuggets beat the Memphis Grizzlies 100-90 on Sunday night. Nene added 18 points and 12 rebounds for the Nuggets, who had six players score in double figures. Rookie guard O.J. Mayo scored a season-high 31 and added eight rebounds for the Grizzlies, but he had only five points after halftime.

Nuggets win in Billups' return to Denver (AP)

The hometown kid had quite the homecoming -- with a little help from Carmelo Anthony. Chauncey Billups made a triumphant return to the Nuggets with 15 points, Anthony scored 28 and Denver beat the Dallas Mavericks 108-105 on Friday night. Billups also had three assists and three steals, including two down the stretch.

Iverson in lineup for Pistons debut (AP)
Allen Iverson was in the starting lineup for Detroit on Friday night, making his delayed debut for the Pistons against the New Jersey Nets. Detroit (4-0) played twice since the trade Monday with Denver that sent Chauncey Billups, Antonio McDyess and Cheikh Samb to the Nuggets for the nine-time All-Star.

Billups calls return to hometown Nuggets 'dream'
Chauncey Billups will make his homecoming debut Friday night when Denver hosts Dallas.



No place like home for Denver native Billups
Chauncey Billups' vertical has diminished and his speed in the open court slowed. That's fine with the Denver Nuggets - they just like him for his winning touch. The Mile High City native led the Detroit Pistons to six straight Eastern Conference finals with his impeccable decision-making abilities and clutch shooting. That's why the Nuggets acquired Billups, along with Antonio McDyess and Cheikh Samb, from Detroit this week for Allen Iverson.img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/Foxsports/rss/NBA/~4/444977121" height="1" width="1"/

No-nonsense Billups returns to Nuggets (AP)
Chauncey Billups' vertical has diminished and his speed in the open court slowed. That's fine with the Denver Nuggets -- they just like him for his winning touch. The Mile High City native led the Detroit Pistons to six straight Eastern Conference finals with his impeccable decision-making abilities and clutch shooting.

Prince helps Pistons improve to 4-0 (AP)
Tayshaun Prince more than made up for Allen Iverson's absence, making sure the Detroit Pistons remained unbeaten. Prince scored 16 of his 27 points in the second quarter, and Richard Hamilton had 22 to help the Pistons beat the Toronto Raptors 100-93 on Wednesday night. Iverson was unavailable for Detroit because Chauncey Billups, one of three players traded to Denver in exchange for Iverson,...

Iverson out for Detroit against Toronto
Detroit guard Allen Iverson was not available for Wednesday's game against Toronto because Chauncey Billups, one of three players traded to Denver in exchange for Iverson, has not completed his physical with the Nuggets. Rodney Stuckey started for the Pistons, who also sent top reserve Antonio McDyess and Cheikh Samb to Denver in Monday's trade. McDyess and Samb were not required to report to Denver.img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/Foxsports/rss/NBA/~4/443808138" height="1" width="1"/

Iverson's status for Wednesday game still uncertain
Allen Iverson is questioning his status as an NBA superstar. After being traded for the second time in his career, Iverson is awaiting the results of Chauncey Billups' physical before being allowed to play for Detroit. "I'm starting to feel like a journeyman," Iverson said jokingly at the Pistons' shootaround before the game against the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night. Some journeyman.img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/Foxsports/rss/NBA/~4/443610299" height="1" width="1"/

Billups likely to miss next Nuggets game (AP)
Chauncey Billups isn't likely to make his Denver Nuggets debut on Wednesday night at Golden State. The Nuggets said Tuesday Billups didn't have enough time to get to the Bay Area. He was in Charlotte with the Pistons when the deal took place. Denver acquired Billups, a point guard and Denver native, along with Antonio McDyess and Cheikh Samb from Detroit on Monday in exchange for Allen Iverson.

Pistons acquire Iverson from Nuggets (AP)
A basketball official says the Denver Nuggets have traded former MVP Allen Iverson to the Detroit Pistons for Chauncey Billups and Antonio McDyess. The official spoke Monday to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because the trade had not been announced. Detroit was determined to shake up its core last summer following a third straight exit from the Eastern Conference finals, but...

Sources: Nuggets agree to send Iverson to Pistons
The Denver Nuggets are expected to trade Allen Iverson to the Detroit Pistons for Chauncey Billups and Antonio McDyess, Pistons team sources told ESPN's Stephen A. Smith.

Pistons insist they'll be different (AP)
The Detroit Pistons are getting one more chance to return to the NBA finals for the first time since 2005 despite threats that the familiar cast was going to get broken up. Rasheed Wallace insisted he wasn't worried about the possibility of getting traded, but he's thankful to have another shot to make a run with Chauncey Billups, Richard Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince.

Report: Billups will pass on Olympics in Beijing
Chauncey Billups pulled himself out of consideration for a spot on the USA Basketball team in the Beijing Games, a person in the NBA told The Associated Press on Tuesday night. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because he did not want to speak for Billups. Billups, an All-Star point guard for the Detroit Pistons, might've had a hard time making the team anyway with guards such as Jason Kidd, Dwyane Wade, Chris Paul and Deron Williams available for the roster.

Pistons face must-win situation in Game 4
Chauncey Billups may not be at full strength, but the Pistons, down 2-1 to the Celtics, are in dire need of a win. Follow Game 4 LIVE.

Ailing Billups to push through injury in East finals
Chauncey Billups probably isn't going to be healthy during the Eastern Conference finals.

Billups must get better for Pistons to prevail
Kevin Garnett looked strong in Boston's Game 1 victory. Chauncey Billups didn't. That's bad news for Detroit, Jeff Goodman says.

Pistons in prime position for title run
Rodney Stuckey helped the Pistons reach the East finals again. Now it's up to Chauncey Billups to deliver another title, Mike Kahn says.

Billups ready for Game 1 of East finals
All-Star point guard Chauncey Billups has practiced with the Detroit Pistons and is expected to be ready to play in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. Detroit coach Flip Saunders says Billups looked good enough in practice Thursday that he could have played if there was a game. Billups missed the last two games against the Orlando Magic in the second round with a strained right hamstring.

Billups expected to play in Game 1 of East finals
All-Star point guard Chauncey Billups practiced with the Detroit Pistons and is expected to be ready to play in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals.

Pistons' Billups to miss Game 5 (AP)
Chauncey Billups doesn't do interviews before he plays, so when he spoke to reporters, that provided the update of the night. The All-Star point guard said his right hamstring was not healthy enough to help the Detroit Pistons in Game 5 of their second-round series with the Orlando Magic. "My improvement from yesterday to today was amazing, but I still haven't been able to sprint full court and...

Billups not expected to play in Game 5
Chauncey Billups is not expected to play for the Detroit Pistons in Game 5 against the Orlando Magic because of a strained right hamstring. Billups was hurt early in Game 3 and did not play the following game, which the Pistons won to take a 3-1 lead in the second-round series. The All-Star point guard went through a strenuous workout confined to a 15-foot area on Monday, the day before Game 5. Billups was replaced by rookie Rodney Stuckey and veteran Lindsey Hunter on Saturday.

Pistons GM thinks Billups will try to play in Game 5
Chauncey Billups seems to be closer to being available to play for the Pistons on Tuesday night than sitting out a second straight game in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Billups' Game 4 status uncertain despite treatment
The Detroit Pistons are aggressively treating Chauncey Billups' strained hamstring with the hope he can return for Game 4 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Orlando Magic on Saturday.

Pistons' Billups not in lineup in Game 4 vs. Magic
Detroit Pistons guard Chauncey Billups won't play in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Orlando Magic on Saturday. Pistons coach Flip Saunders says Billups wouldn't be effective because of a sore hamstring. The All-Star strained it on Thursday after getting tied up under the basket with an Orlando player. With Billups out, the Pistons are activating guards Lindsey Hunter and Juan Dixon.

LIVE: Pistons, Magic in Game 4
If the Pistons want a 3-1 series lead, they'll have to find a way without Chauncey Billups. Can the Magic take advantage? Follow LIVE.

Pistons' Billups won't play in Game 4 against Magic
Detroit Pistons guard Chauncey Billups won't play in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Orlando Magic on Saturday. Pistons coach Flip Saunders says Billups wouldn't be effective because of a sore hamstring. The All-Star strained it on Thursday after getting tied up under the basket with an Orlando player. With Billups out, the Pistons are activating guards Lindsey Hunter and Juan Dixon.

Billups out for Game 4; Stuckey expected to start
Detroit Pistons guard Chauncey Billups won't play in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Orlando Magic on Saturday.

Pistons holding out hope for Billups in Game 4
Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy sees a little bit of Chauncey Billups in Pistons rookie Rodney Stuckey. Both have good size and strength for point guards and are tough to keep out of the paint. But Billups has more than 100 playoff games under his belt, and Stuckey is appearing in just his second series. The Pistons are aggressively treating Billups' strained hamstring and hope he can return for Game 4 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series in Orlando on Saturday.

Pistons PG Stuckey may spell Billups (AP)
Orlando Magic coach Stan Van Gundy sees a little bit of Chauncey Billups in Pistons rookie Rodney Stuckey. Both have good size and strength for point guards and are tough to keep out of the paint. But Billups has more than 100 playoff games under his belt, and Stuckey is appearing in just his second series.

Pistons G Billups unsure about Game 4 (AP)

Chauncey Billups spent almost all Wednesday night in the trainer's room. He was there Thursday, when the rest of the Detroit Pistons took the court to practice. And he'll be there most of Friday, too. "He's going to have stuff he's never seen before," said Arnie Kander, Detroit's strength and conditioning coach.

Billups sore, unsure he can go in Game 4
Chauncey Billups said Thursday he was still sore, a night after he was forced to leave the Pistons' loss to Orlando in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinals because of a strained right hamstring. The All-Star guard said he isn't sure if he will be ready to play in Game 4 on Saturday in Orlando. The Magic's 111-86 victory Wednesday cut the Pistons' lead to 2-1. "Just going to take it one day at a time and see what happens," Billups said.

Lewis' 33 help Magic pull within 2-1 (AP)

The Orlando Magic won't be swept by the Detroit Pistons again. Rashard Lewis made sure of it Wednesday night. Lewis scored a career playoff-high 33 points and the Magic broke down the Pistons' stout defense in a 111-86 victory. Detroit leads the Eastern Conference semifinals 2-1, but it may have to play without All-Star point guard Chauncey Billups.

Billups leaves Pistons-Magic game early with injury
Detroit guard Chauncey Billups left the court with a strained right hamstring early in the first quarter of Game 3 of the second-round series against Orlando on Wednesday night. The Pistons said Billups' return was questionable. He got tied up with Orlando's Jameer Nelson on a drive to the basket. Nelson's leg caught Billups', and the Pistons' All-Star fell to the court. Billups is averaging 17.5 points in the postseason, second-best on the team.

Pistons' Billups strains hamstring, leaves Game 3
Detroit guard Chauncey Billups left the court with an apparent injury early in the first quarter of Game 3 of the second-round series against Orlando on Wednesday night.

Billups leaves with hamstring strain (AP)
Detroit guard Chauncey Billups left the court with a strained right hamstring early in the first quarter of Game 3 of the second-round series against Orlando on Wednesday night. The Pistons said Billups' return was questionable. He got tied up with Orlando's Jameer Nelson on a drive to the basket. Nelson's leg caught Billups', and the Pistons' All-Star fell to the court.

NBA admits Billups' 3 should not have counted
The NBA admitted Chauncey Billups' 3-pointer at the end of the third quarter of Monday's Detroit-Orlando playoff game should not have counted, but said referees weren't allowed to review instant replay to determine that.

NBA: Billups' shot should not have counted
The NBA admitted Chauncey Billups' 3-pointer at the end of the third quarter of Monday's Detroit-Orlando playoff game should not have counted, but said referees weren't allowed to review instant replay to determine that. League president Joel Litvin also said the disputed shot, which gave Detroit a 78-76 lead in its 100-93 victory, could not have been replayed after the clock malfunction was discovered.

Good play: Billups wins NBA sportmanship award
Chauncey Billups won the league's sportsmanship award on Monday.

Pistons' Billups wins sportsmanship award
Chauncey Billups was presented with the NBA's Walter J. Kennedy sportsmanship award Monday night before Detroit's playoff game against the Orlando Magic. The award, which is voted on by the Professional Basketball Writers Association, is given to a player or coach who shows "outstanding service and dedication to the community." Billups has hosted a charity golf tournament in Detroit in each of the last three summers, and also is involved in work in Minneapolis and his hometown of Denver.

Billups wins sportsmanship award (AP)
Chauncey Billups was presented with the NBA's Walter J. Kennedy sportsmanship award Monday night before Detroit's playoff game against the Orlando Magic. The award, which is voted on by the Professional Basketball Writers Association, is given to a player or coach who shows "outstanding service and dedication to the community." Billups has hosted a charity golf tournament in Detroit in each of the...

Disputed shot helps Pistons to 2-0 lead (AP)

The Detroit Pistons took advantage of what seemed to be a little help from the scorer's table and went on beat the Orlando Magic. Chauncey Billups scored 28 points, three on a disputed shot at the end of the third quarter, and Detroit got past Orlando for a 100-93 win Monday night and a 2-0 lead in the second-round series.

Pistons rip Magic 91-72 in series opener (AP)

Hedo Turkoglu's uncontested dunk early in the second half gave the Orlando Magic their first lead. Less than a minute later, the Detroit Pistons took over. Chauncey Billups had 19 points, seven assists and played a key role in the decisive run of the game, leading Detroit to a 91-72 win over Orlando on Saturday night in Game 1 of the second-round series.

Pistons oust 76ers with easy Game 6 win (AP)

Close for four games, no contest the last two. Richard Hamilton hit his first five shots during Detroit's overpowering start, and the Pistons rolled into the second round of the playoffs by crushing the Philadelphia 76ers 100-77 on Thursday night to win the series 4-2. The Pistons convincingly won the last two games of a series that wasn't expected to last this long and will host the Orlando Magic,...

Pistons beat 76ers 98-81 for 3-2 lead (AP)

The Detroit Pistons might have won Game 5 more than an hour before it started. Music wasn't rattling the locker room. Eyes were locked on the big-screen TV showing the previous matchup with the Philadelphia 76ers. Chauncey Billups scored 21 points, Richard Hamilton had 20 and Rasheed Wallace added 19 to lift Detroit to a 98-81 victory over Philadelphia on Tuesday night and a 3-2 lead in the...

Cavs' James sits and wins scoring title (AP)

Chauncey Billups looked up from his chair in Detroit's crowded locker room and addressed the days ahead. "The real season," he said, "is about to start." Playoff time. For the Pistons, that's all that matters. With its reserves playing most of the minutes, Detroit closed the regular-season Wednesday night with an 84-74 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers, the team that beat the Pistons four straight...

76ers tighten grip on 6th, beat Pistons (AP)

Sixers coach Maurice Cheeks got his wish. Shortly before the 76ers' 101-94 victory over Detroit on Wednesday, Cheeks was asked about facing a team that has been resting its starters. Cheeks laughed and said: "I hope they do." Having locked up the No. 2 seed in the East, the Pistons once again gave their reserves significant minutes.

Pistons G Hamilton, Nets F Carter out (AP)
Richard Hamilton and Vince Carter both missed the game Friday night between the Detroit Pistons and New Jersey Nets. Hamilton has missed five of Detroit's last six games with a sore hip, while Carter has been bothered by an ankle injury. Chauncey Billups and Rasheed Wallace both returned to the Pistons' lineup after being rested for Tuesday's victory in Minnesota.

Pistons rest 3, but still beat Wolves (AP)

With mentor Chauncey Billups watching his every move from the sideline, rookie Rodney Stuckey did his best "Mr. Big Shot" impression for the Detroit Pistons' "B" squad. As Billups has done so many times before in a Detroit uniform, Stuckey did much of his damage when his team needed him most, scoring 12 of his career-high 27 points in the fourth quarter to lift the Pistons to a 94-90 victory over...

Pistons deactivate 3 starters vs. Wolves (AP)
This was no April Fool's joke -- the Detroit Pistons deactivated their three biggest stars Tuesday night for a game at Minnesota. With the second seed in the East essentially sewn up, and top-seeded Boston all but out of reach, Pistons general manager Joe Dumars and coach Flip Saunders decided to give Chauncey Billups, Richard Hamilton and Rasheed Wallace the night off against the Timberwolves.

Pistons' OT win ends Suns' streak at 7 (AP)

The Detroit Pistons have been searching for reliable backups for All-Star guards Chauncey Billups and Richard Hamilton for years. They might have finally found them. With Hamilton sidelined with a sore hip, rookies Rodney Stuckey and Arron Afflalo stepped up to help the Pistons end Phoenix's seven-game winning streak with a 110-105 overtime victory Monday night.

76ers hold off Pistons 83-82 (AP)

Andre Iguodala scored 22 points and the Philadelphia 76ers hung on for a 83-82 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night. The Sixers didn't score in the final 2:27, but won when Chauncey Billups' jumper over Rodney Carney bounced off the rim as time expired. Carney scored 16 points for Philadelphia, and Samuel Dalembert grabbed 15 rebounds.

Pistons snap 5-game skid versus Bulls (AP)

Chauncey Billups matched a season high with 34 points, Richard Hamilton scored 23, and the Detroit Pistons beat the Chicago Bulls 116-109 Sunday night to clinching their seventh straight playoff berth. Tayshaun Prince added 21 points for the Pistons, who ended a five-game losing streak against Chicago and prevented the Bulls from sweeping the season series for the first time since 1995-96.

Pistons, Celtics meeting for last time in regular season
Chauncey Billups drew this foul and made the winning FTs when the Pistons last played in Boston. Follow tonight's matchup LIVE.

Pistons overcome slow start, top Sonics (AP)

Tayshaun Prince scored 24 points, Chauncey Billups added 20 points and nine assists, and the Detroit Pistons overcame a slow start to beat the Seattle SuperSonics 100-97 Tuesday night. Seattle shot 82 percent in the first quarter on its way to a 41-28 lead, but that fell to 32 percent in the final three periods as the SuperSonics lost for the fifth time in six games.

Okur rallies Jazz past Pistons 103-95 (AP)

Mehmet Okur scored 11 of his 24 points in the fourth quarter and the Utah rallied from a 15-point second-half deficit to beat the Detroit Pistons 103-95 Wednesday night. The Jazz won their sixth straight over the Pistons, holding them without a field goal for almost 12 minutes between the end of the third and midway through the fourth.

Pistons' balanced scoring beats Nuggets (AP)

Chauncey Billups, Tayshaun Prince and Richard Hamilton had 20 points each to lead the Detroit Pistons over the Denver Nuggets 98-93 on Monday night. The Nuggets had a chance to tie it when Billups fouled J.R. Smith on a 3-point attempt with 6.5 seconds left and Detroit leading 95-92. Smith made the first free throw, missed the second and intentionally missed the third, but the Nuggets couldn't get...

Pistons pound O'Neal, Suns 116-86 (AP)

Rasheed Wallace scored 22 points in 26 minutes to lead six Detroit players in double figures, and the Pistons embarrassed Shaquille O'Neal and the Phoenix Suns 116-86 Sunday. Richard Hamilton had 18 points and Chauncey Billups 14 points and 11 assists, and Antonio McDyess 12 points and 13 rebounds. Jarvis Hayes added a season-high 18 as Detroit easily ended the Suns' 11-game winning streak against...

Pistons beat Pacers to win 10th straight (AP)
Chauncey Billups, Tayshaun Prince and Richard Hamilton led a balanced attack with 14 points each as the Detroit Pistons won their 10th straight with a 96-80 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night. Jason Maxiell added 11 points and 11 rebounds for the Pistons, who haven't lost since Jan. 21, and are 31-8 since an 8-5 start.

Pistons rally for ninth straight victory (AP)

Chauncey Billups missed every shot he tried through the first three quarters. Not to worry. The fourth is his time. Living up to the nickname "Mr. Big Shot," Billups scored 12 of his 16 points in the final period to rally the Detroit Pistons to their ninth win in a row, 94-90 over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night.

Billups pushes Pistons' win streak to 7 (AP)

Chauncey Billups looked like he was gearing up for a big night. Instead, he decided to enjoy the unusual role of cheerleader. Billups took advantage of Brandon Roy's absence to score 17 points in the first quarter, then watched Detroit's young reserves finish off the Pistons' seventh straight victory, 91-82 over the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday night.

Wallace leads Pistons by Pacers 110-104 (AP)

Rasheed Wallace had 24 points and 10 rebounds to help the Detroit Pistons beat the Indiana Pacers 110-104 on Tuesday night. Tayshaun Prince scored 17 points and Chauncey Billups added 13 points and eight assists for the Pistons, who won their third straight game. Mike Dunleavy led Indiana with 25 points and seven assists.

Pistons end 3-game skid by beating 76ers (AP)

Richard Hamilton scored 21 points and Chauncey Billups had 19 to help the Detroit Pistons snap a rare three-game losing streak and beat the Philadelphia 76ers 86-78 on Wednesday night. The Pistons still have the second-best record in the East, trailing only Boston, but entered trying to avoid their first four-game skid since 2004-05.

Hamilton's 39 power Pistons past Raptors (AP)

Richard Hamilton scored a season-high 39 points as the Detroit Pistons rebounded from an embarrassing loss for a 103-89 victory over the Toronto Raptors Tuesday night. Hamilton hit 16 of 22 shots in Detroit's first game since losing 89-65 to the last-place New York Knicks on Sunday. Chauncey Billups added 20 points for Detroit and Antonio McDyess had nine points, 12 rebounds and a career-high seven...

Pistons win 11th straight, top Raptors (AP)

Richard Hamilton scored 22 points, Rasheed Wallace added 20 and the Detroit Pistons extended their winning streak to 11 games with a 101-85 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Friday night. Chauncey Billups had 18 points for Detroit, which has not lost since an 80-77 defeat in Houston on Dec. 12 and owns the longest current run in the NBA.

Pistons win ninth straight, pound Bucks (AP)

The Detroit Pistons have put on several impressive performances during their recent run atop the Eastern Conference. They've never looked better than this. Richard Hamilton scored 22 points and Chauncey Billups added 13 points and 12 assists, helping the Pistons rout the Milwaukee Bucks 114-69 Monday for their ninth straight win and 17th in 19 games.

Pistons win eighth straight, beat Pacers (AP)

Richard Hamilton scored 24 points, Chauncey Billups had 17, and the Detroit Pistons beat the Indiana Pacers 98-92 Saturday night for their eighth straight victory. Reserve Jason Maxiell added 12 points and Rasheed Wallace finished with 10 points and 10 rebounds to help the Pistons (23-7) complete a home-and-home sweep.

Pistons poised for more
Chauncey Billups and the Pistons are on track for a sixth straight trip to the Eastern finals. Mike Kahn admires their consistency.

Pistons hand Celtics first home loss (AP)

Chauncey Billups has had enough big moments in his career that he knew exactly what he wanted to do against a younger player. Billups hit two free throws with a tenth of a second left and the Detroit Pistons handed the Boston Celtics their first home loss of the season, 87-85 on Wednesday night. Billups, who scored 12 of his team-high 28 points in the final quarter, was fouled by Tony Allen.

Pistons-Celtics CP
Chauncey Billups hit two late free throws as the Pistons handed the Celtics their first home loss in a defensive struggle.

Billups keeps Pistons on winning track (AP)

The Atlanta Hawks just can't seem to find a way around the Detroit Pistons. Chauncey Billups scored 23 points and the Pistons beat Atlanta 91-81 Friday night to remain perfect in three meetings between the teams this season. "It's actually tough to play a team three times this early," Detroit coach Flip Saunders said after the sloppy victory.

Rockets win despite poor foul shooting (AP)

As long as the Houston Rockets avoided the free-throw line on Wednesday night, they did just fine against the Detroit Pistons. Tracy McGrady scored 29 points and Yao Ming added 21 points and 13 rebounds as the Rockets nearly entered the NBA record book for foul-shot futility before beating the Pistons 80-77.

Billups leads Pistons past Grizzlies (AP)
The Detroit Pistons wanted to make sure from the start the Memphis Grizzlies never got comfortable. And by shooting better than 60 percent through much of the first half and building the lead to 24 points, the Central Division leaders were in control most of the game. Chauncey Billups had 28 points and 14 assists, while Richard Hamilton scored 27 points as the Pistons beat the Grizzlies 113-103 on...

Billups, McDyess lift Pistons by Bobcats (AP)

Chauncey Billups scored 20 points and Antonio McDyess added 19 points and nine rebounds, leading the Detroit Pistons to a 104-85 win over the Charlotte Bobcats on Sunday night. The Pistons soundly bounced back after their five-game winning streak was snapped by Chicago on Friday. The Bobcats had ended a seven-game skid Saturday against the Cavaliers.

Balanced Pistons surge past Hawks 106-95 (AP)

The Detroit Pistons scored 22 of the first 31 points in the third quarter to break open a close game, beating the Atlanta Hawks 106-95 on Tuesday night for their fourth straight victory. Chauncey Billups made two free throws with 1.4 seconds left in the third period, giving the balanced Pistons' attack seven players in double figures and an 87-61 lead with a full period left.

Maxiell sparks Pistons past Nets 118-95 (AP)

Richard Hamilton and Chauncey Billups got into a groove on Sunday night -- at the New Jersey Nets' expense. Billups and Hamilton, both hampered by injuries in the first month of the season, combined for 37 points on 12-of-19 shooting in the Pistons' 118-95 victory. "It's fun to play like this," said Billups, who had 18 points and nine assists.

Prince, Pistons keep Bucks reeling (AP)

Tayshaun Prince scored 20 points and the Detroit Pistons put away the Milwaukee Bucks early in a 117-91 victory on Saturday night. Chauncey Billups added 18 points and nine assists, Rasheed Wallace had 15 points and 10 rebounds, and reserve Jason Maxiell scored 13 points. Bobby Simmons and Charlie Villanueva led the Bucks with 13 points, but they all came with the game already decided.

Boozer, Williams lift Jazz over Pistons (AP)

Carlos Boozer had 36 points and 11 rebounds, Deron Williams added 21 points and 14 assists, and the Utah Jazz posted a 103-93 victory over the Detroit Pistons on Sunday. Detroit played without Rasheed Wallace (knee) for the second game in a row, then had head coach Flip Saunders ejected after picking up a pair of technicals for arguing with official Marc Davis in the third quarter.

Pistons hand Knicks eighth straight loss (AP)

Chauncey Billups had season highs with 25 points and 15 assists, directing the Detroit Pistons to a 98-86 victory over the slumping New York Knicks on Wednesday night. Knicks coach Isiah Thomas, who became a Hall of Famer player in Detroit, heard cheers for a change when he was introduced before the game.

Pistons drop Sonics to 0-7, win 107-103 (AP)

This early in the season, Richard Hamilton understands it's tough not to have lulls in the course of a game. Hamilton and his Detroit teammates just happened to be very good at the right times on Sunday night -- the beginning and end. Hamilton scored 10 of his season-high 32 points during a torrid first quarter, then the Pistons showed their veteran moxie in the final minutes to hold off Seattle...

Perfection eludes Clippers in Detroit
Chauncey Billups scored 23 points and Antonio McDyess added 14 Friday night to help the Pistons hand the Los Angeles Clippers their first loss, 103-79. Billups made five 3-pointers in the second half in a victory that left Boston as the NBA's lone unbeaten team. Nazr Mohammed came off the bench to score 15 points and Richard Hamilton added 10 and 10 assists.

Pistons hand Clippers first loss, 103-79 (AP)

Chauncey Billups and the Detroit Pistons showed another team how it felt to lose their first game. Billups scored 23 points and Antonio McDyess added 14 Friday night to help Detroit hand the Los Angeles Clippers their first loss, 103-79. A night after Detroit's first defeat of the season, Billups made five 3-pointers in the second half in a victory that left Boston as the NBA's lone unbeaten team.

Billups' late FT gets Pistons by Hawks (AP)

The Detroit Pistons expected Jason Maxiell to provide an undersized post presence off the bench. They didn't know that Jarvis Hayes was going to do the same thing. Maxiell and Hayes combined for 23 points, including 11 in the fourth quarter, to help the Pistons rally for a 92-91 victory over the Atlanta Hawks Sunday night.

Pistons rally to beat Hawks
Chauncey Billups hit a free throw with 1.7 seconds left to give the Detroit Pistons a 92-91 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday night. The Pistons trailed in their home opener by nine points entering the fourth, but dominated the first 11 minutes of the final period before a late Hawks rally. Two 3-pointers by Joe Johnson pulled Atlanta to 89-88 with 40 seconds to go, but Jarvis Hayes grabbed a key offensive rebound and Billups made it a 3-point game from the line.

Billups leads Pistons past Magic
Chauncey Billups had 18 points and seven assists Friday night to lead the Detroit Pistons to a second straight victory without Richard Hamilton, 116-92 over the Orlando Magic. The Magic were looking to avenge eight losses against Detroit last season, the last four of which swept Orlando from its first playoff appearance in four years. Early on, the Magic looked like they could pull it off.

Pistons beat Magic in playoff rematch (AP)

Chauncey Billups had 18 points and seven assists Friday night to lead the Detroit Pistons to a second straight victory without Richard Hamilton, 116-92 over the Orlando Magic. The Magic were looking to avenge eight losses against Detroit last season, the last four of which swept Orlando from its first playoff appearance in four years.

Prince scores 34 points, adds 12 boards
Tayshaun Prince scored a career-high 34 points and matched a career best with 12 rebounds, and the Detroit Pistons used a big second-half run to beat the Miami Heat 91-80 Thursday night in the season opener for both teams. Chauncey Billups added 19 points and 11 assists for the Pistons, who used a 12-0 run over a 6-minute stretch midway through the second half to take control. Rasheed Wallace scored 11 points for Detroit.

Prince leads Pistons past Heat in opener (AP)

Tayshaun Prince scored a career-high 34 points and matched a career best with 12 rebounds, and the Detroit Pistons used a big second-half run to beat the Miami Heat 91-80 Thursday night in the season opener for both teams. Chauncey Billups added 19 points and 11 assists for the Pistons, who used a 12-0 run over a 6-minute stretch midway through the second half to take control.

Stuckey out 6 weeks after hand surgery
Detroit Pistons guard Rodney Stuckey had surgery on his broken left hand Thursday and is expected to be out for about six weeks. The rookie from Eastern Washington injured his hand in Detroit's final exhibition game Wednesday night. He averaged 12.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.3 steals in eight games. Stuckey was expected to start the season next week at Miami playing a key role, primarily backing up point guard Chauncey Billups.

Stuckey breaks hand in Pistons win
Detroit rookie Rodney Stuckey broke his left hand in the third quarter of the Pistons' 104-85 victory over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night. The first-round pick from Eastern Washington had 10 points in 13 minutes before he was injured late in the third quarter. Jarvis Hayes scored 21 points against his former team to lead Detroit. Rasheed Wallace added 17 while Tayshaun Prince and Chauncey Billups each had 12.

Chauncey Billups, G - DET
Billups leads Pistons balanced attack in loss Visit Rotoworld.com for more analysis on this update.

Pistons easily defeat undermanned Heat (AP)

Tayshaun Prince scored 13 points and Chauncey Billups added 12 to help the Detroit Pistons beat the undermanned Miami Heat 103-86 in the exhibition opener Monday night. The Heat were missing Shaquille O'Neal, Dwyane Wade and Alonzo Mourning, who all stayed in Florida to deal with injuries. Udonis Haslem and Antoine Walker spent the night on the bench.