ANTHONY OUT

Nuggets forward Carmelo Anthony won't play tonight at Golden State, remaining behind because his fiancee, La La Vazquez, is about to give birth to the couple's first child. Anthony expects the boy, who will be named Kiyan, to be born today in Denver.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity . . . ," he said of the birth. "I wouldn't miss it for the world."

Anthony admits it has been difficult recently keeping his mind on basketball. He said he's "just waiting for it to happen."

SMITH RETURNS

Nuggets guard J.R. Smith, who had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Feb. 21, returned Tuesday against the Hornets. Smith was ruled out three to four weeks but returned in 13 days.

"At the end of the game, coach (George Karl) said, 'You want to play?' And I said, 'Yeah, why not?' " Smith said. "I felt pretty good. I couldn't backpedal or turn like I wanted to."

Smith didn't travel to Golden State because of the risk of the knee swelling at altitude but hopes to play Friday against Detroit.

HE SAID IT

"It's emotional if he wins or loses. He's had an incredible five years."

Karl, who'll see his son Coby play for Boise State against Fresno State Thursday in the WAC tournament in Las Cruces, N.M., in what could be Coby's college finale.

SCORING RACE

Player, team Tue. G Pts. Avg.

Anthony, Denver 21 43 1,298 30.2

Bryant, LAL 40 57 1,665 29.2

Wade, Miami DNP 46 1,324 28.8

Arenas, Wash. 25 59 1,696 28.7

Iverson, Denver 25 42 1,175 28.0