Hornets vs. Nuggets tonight at New Orleans Arena, for the first time since… well, never mind.

The Nuggets roll in with a 19-7 record and winners of three straight. Most recently they knocked off the Rockets in Houston on Wednesday behind 38 points from Carmelo Anthony; his fifth straight game scoring 30-plus.

Chauncey Billups will likely miss tonight’s contest with a groin strain, so expect Anthony Carter to start at point for the Nuggets. As you may recall, Carter’s ankles are not fond of Chris Paul.

The Hornets are coming off Wednesday’s win over the Pistons in New Orleans, looking to beat an upper echelon opponent for the first time in almost a month.

Linkage:

• Ryan’s game preview
• Rival bloggers: Denver Stiffs | Roundball Mining Company | The Nugg Doctor

(Many thanks to Dariusz for the banner, today featuring Marcus Thornton. Be sure to check out more of Dariusz’s designs in our Wallpapers vault.)