Iverson's Detroit debut delayed but Pistons win anyway

Allen Iverson was not allowed to play for the Detroit Pistons here on Wednesday because two of the players sent to Denver in exchange for the flamboyant playmaker have yet to take physicals.

Chauncey Billups and Senegalese center Cheikh Samb will take their physicals for the Nuggets on Thursday and until their status is confirmed, Iverson is not allowed to suit up for the Pistons.

Billups, Samb and Antonio McDyess were sent to Denver in exchange for Iverson, 33, who will serve as Detroit's new point guard.

The Pistons managed with Iverson or the players sent to Detroit, defeating the Toronto Raptors 100-93. The Pistons improved to 4-0 while the Raptors dropped to 3-1.

Iverson, averaging 18.7 points and 6.7 assists in three games this season, is expected to be on the court for the Pistons on Friday when they face the New Jersey Nets.