Nuggets to start Shelden Williams at power forward

Ever since Kenyon Martin underwent knee surgery this summer, Nuggets fans — and Nuggets coaches — have wondered who would start at power forward on opening night.

Coach George Karl made it clear on media day that he prefers having Al Harrington come off the bench. On Sunday, Karl said Shelden Williams will be the starter at power forward Wednesday night against Utah at the Pepsi Center.

Harrington returned to practice Sunday after missing a couple of weeks with a left foot injury, and he should be ready to play Wednesday.

"I just want him healthy, and his instincts and professionalism will help him through this," Karl said of Harrington, who averaged 17.7 points per game for the Knicks last season. "We have minutes waiting for him. We've got to get him playing within the feel of what we're trying to do. He's got to help us win games. He's not just going to fill a hole out there."