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Iverson a perfect fit in Denver

The Denver Nuggets defeated the visiting Boston Celtics 116-105 behind the point, assists and overall leadership of Allen Iverson. In his second game for the Nuggets since being traded from the Philadelphia 76ers, the Answer scored 28 points and passed 13 assists. It was his second game since the trade and his first win in Nuggets uniform.

Earl Boykins, playing alongside Iverson in the backcourt, scored 28 points as well off the bench. The 6`0" Iverson and 5`5" Boykins are perhaps the smallest backcourt in the league. The team`s big guys also contributed to the victory. Reggie Evans had 14 points and 14 rebounds coming off the bench, and Eduardo Najera had 16 points and 11 boards. All, however, focused on Iverson`s game. "His leadership is helping us a lot," Evans said.

The visiting Celtics were also interested in acquiring Iverson. Instead they need to cope without injured Paul Pierce, out for the second straight game with a left foot injury. Wally Szczerbiak also sat out with an ankle sprain. Delonte West played only 18 minutes after hurting his back on a bad fall. Their problems and Iverson`s performance made Denver`s problems (missing Carmelo Anthony and J.R. Smith) seem minor.