TOO LATE TO SLOW

Nuggets coach George Karl considered pulling in the reins on the running game.

"We've been in meetings where we've talked about slowing it down," Karl said. "Maybe our personality is not as built for running as it was earlier in the year. But I think, at this time of the year, it would be crazy for us to slow it down."

With the Nuggets having traded point guards Andre Miller and Earl Boykins, the running game hasn't always been fluid.

"We're just going to have to live with the personality we've been dealt," Karl said.

MUSICAL GUARDS

Karl again changed his backcourt. Starting Sunday at Sacramento was point guard Steve Blake, with Allen Iverson moving to shooting guard.

Seven players have started alongside Iverson in the backcourt since his Dec. 19 acquisition, although Blake, who started 18 games before going to the bench for eight, is a repeat.

"I try to be a really good role player and set things up," said Blake, whom Karl started for his ball-handling skills but wouldn't say how long he'll stay with him.

HE SAID IT

"Melo gets killed and he doesn't get as many whistles as he deserves. And I think it's wrong."

Karl, on forward Carmelo Anthony.

Chris Tomasson