While few expected the Denver Nuggets would carry a sub-.500 mark into the new year, one can only imagine where they would be without Carmelo Anthony.

The third-year forward has eclipsed the 20-point barrier in each of the past 14 games and has pushed his scoring average to 24.8. But if Anthony is going to keep his streak alive tonight against the San Antonio Spurs (7, Pepsi Center, Altitude), he'll have to do it against a defender that has given him, and many others, fits throughout his career: Bruce Bowen.

"The challenge is always good going against Bowen," said Anthony, whose streak began after returning from a sprained left ankle that kept him out for one game and most of another. "He makes you bring out your best. He's a quick defender, good hands, good feet, so I'm going to have to try to get some easy ones on him."