Nuggets' Will Barton: Back to bench role Thursday

Barton will come off the bench in Thursday's game against the Pacers.

Analysis:

Barton had a one-game cameo in the starting five in Saturday's loss to the Thunder when Gary Harris (groin) was out, scoring 21 points to go with seven boards in 28 minutes. However, with the extended break in the schedule providing adequate time for Harris to recover, Barton will be forced to settle back into his customary sixth-man role. Barton had made only 15- and 16-minute appearances in the prior two games when both he and Harris were healthy, so it wouldn't be a surprise if Barton sees a steep downturn in playing time upon moving back to the bench.