Denver Nuggets: The best game from every player not named Nikola Jokic

Jan. 30 vs. Utah Jazz

While it wasn’t his highest-scoring game or his best by game score, this Jan. 30 matchup against the Utah Jazz allowed Torrey Craig to best show what he brings to the table on both ends of the floor.

Craig started off strong, scoring 10 of his 13 points in the first half, while also grabbing five rebounds, and securing two blocks and one steal.

Most importantly, however, was his defense on Donovan Mitchell, who had a rough night offensively throughout the game. Mitchell was held scoreless through halftime, converting on none of his five field goal attempts. Of those five shots, two were drives to the hoop that were ultimately swatted by Craig in the second quarter.

While Craig only recorded three points in the second half, he pulled down another five boards to notch a double-double, all while never ceasing his stifling defense on Mitchell.

Mitchell didn’t record his sole made field goal until the fourth quarter, and he finished with just four points on 1-of-12 shooting from the field.

About Craig’s play, Mitchell had this to say:

Craig finished up with 13 points, 10 rebounds, two blocks, one assist and one steal on a solid 60 percent from the field. The Nuggets picked up the home victory, 106-100, and it’s safe to say that without Craig’s two-way impact, the game would’ve ended much differently for Denver.