Denver Nuggets: 3 notable performances behind winning streak

3. Paul Millsap‘s monster all-around night in Minnesota

Nuggets fans are often tempted to throw shade at Paul Millsap’s humongous contract. Sure, he may be overpaid, but the man knows when to give Denver a lift.

Stuck in a 1-6 stretch, the Nuggets desperately needed a win Wednesday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Millsap stepped up big with 25 points, five rebounds and a ridiculous five steals. He was a terror on both ends of the court, and Minnesota had no answer for him.

Midway through the third quarter, Millsap brutally hit the deck, opening a gash across his face. Five stitches later, he returned in the fourth quarter to help Denver close the game. Not all heroes wear capes, you know.

Here’s what Malone had to say about Millsap, per FOX Sports:

"“He’s a tough cat. I’m sure he’s going to have a nice headache in the morning,” Malone said. “But he’s a pro — he came back in and wanted to get right back in the game and helped us pull out this victory.”"

This marks the second time Millsap saved the Nuggets with timeliness this season. The other occasion came by way of game-winning tip during a close game in Chicago. Go ahead and credit two of Denver’s 13 dubs directly to Millsap.