Nuggets Martin apologizes to team

"First and foremost, I want to apologize to my teammates and coaching staff for my actions on Monday night," Martin said. "There is nothing more important to me than being a good teammate and giving 110 percent effort each and every day. Nothing will ever change that. I sincerely regret if this situation has been a distraction for the team and the Denver Nuggets organization."

Martin played less than seven minutes in Monday’s 98-87 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers in Game 2 of their Western Conference quarterfinal series. He didn’t play much in the first half. After intermission, he didn’t get to Denver’s bench until several minutes elapsed in the third quarter, and then sat with a towel over his head.

"I take the responsibility of representing the Denver Nuggets very seriously and I truly hope that Nuggets fans understand that," Martin added. "I support the team fully and can’t wait to rejoin them on the court as soon as possible. Right now, the focus should be on the playoffs and getting a Game 3 victory."

The Nuggets host the Clippers for Game 3 of the best-of-seven series Thursday and are already behind by two games.

Martin, who was held scoreless Monday, averaged 12.9 points and 6.3 rebounds per game during the regular season, but was hampered with knee tendinitis.