The Nuggets didn't need Carmelo Anthony early, but could've used him late.

With their leading scorer starting a 15-game suspension, the Nuggets nearly blew a huge lead but held on to beat the Wizards 117-108 on Monday night.

Anthony, J.R. Smith and Nene were all suspended earlier in the day for their roles in a brawl against the Knicks on Saturday night at Madison Square Garden.

Earl Boykins had a season-high 29 points and Marcus Camby grabbed 17 rebounds and scored a season-high 25 points.