By Chris Helgeson

What happens when you add 2 of the NBA's top ten scorers, two scorers that combine to average 55.2 points per game, to one roster?

You're left with a lot more questions than 'Answers.'

When you consider pure, raw scoring ability, few can compare to the Denver Nuggets. They were 3rd in the NBA in scoring, 5th in the league in assists, and even posted the 2nd highest total number of steals over the course of the 2006-2007 season.

And yet, something is missing.

Even with two of the most marketable Superstars in the NBA today, the Nuggets have failed to garner the same respect as other elite Western Conference teams.

Look no farther than their team defense.

Last year, the Nuggets were 26th in opponent scoring, meaning essentially, that they give up as many points as they score. Along with that, Denver was 28th in turnovers, which is a recipe for disaster in close games.

And you can expect the Trail Blazers to keep things close against the Nuggets.

After an impressive victory at home against the Sonics, Portland will look to continue their home winning streak by knocking off the Denver Nuggets in Redmond.

Yes, you read that right, it’s a home game for the Trail Blazers, but it will be played in Redmond, outside the friendly confines of the Rose Garden.

The difference maker may very well be Brandon Roy’s ability to continue the momentum he developed in the 4th quarter of Wednesday’s game against the Sonics. Roy finished with 12 points in the final 6 minutes, and almost single-handedly lifted the Trail Blazers over their I-5 rival.

LaMarcus Aldridge will get a true test as he will most likely draws reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Marcus Camby.

Aldridge was absolutely unstoppable against the Sonics, scoring 31 points and grabbing 13 rebounds.

It’s Portland’s chance to seek revenge for an early preseason loss, and, most importantly, the game draws us one step closer to Opening Night! Tickets for the Trail Blazers home opener are still available, but they’re flying off the shelves faster than Tickle-Me-Elmo did in 1996!