Anthony sits out Nuggets' preseason opener

DENVER (AP) -Carmelo Anthony sat out the Denver Nuggets' preseason opener against Minnesota on Friday night because of a bruised left ring finger.

Anthony was injured when he had the ball slapped out of his hand during practice Thursday. X-rays were negative. He attended Friday's shootaround with his hand wrapped, but did not participate.

The 24-year-old averaged 25.7 points and a career-high 7.4 rebounds last season. He was a key member of the U.S. team that won the gold medal at the Beijing Olympics.

Chucky Atkins (knee) and Sonny Weems (groin injury) of the Nuggets also missed the game.