With Martin out, Nuggets keep focus on winning

DENVER (AP) -With Kenyon Martin's left knee aching, Carmelo Anthony vows to be more of a force on the boards.

With coach George Karl's health ailing, Chauncey Billups pledges to take on more leadership responsibilities - if that's even possible.

These have turned into trying times for the Denver Nuggets, leaders of the Northwest Division.

What they're focused on, though, isn't their health but catching the Los Angeles Lakers atop the Western Division.

The Nuggets open a pivotal four-game road trip in Minnesota on Wednesday night without their defensive stalwart and easygoing coach.