Thought his two makes during the run back were pretty key. He got schooled maybe more than a few times. But also turned Jokic back more than a few times. A couple times, Jokic felt him, decided not to go in, and just passed the ball out. That's the Nuggets' biggest advantage nullified. Also, a few big boards and tips. What with his shoulder, probably best as he could do, and they don't move on otherwise.
Basketball is so much better when big men are involved.
*** And as for all those missed Denver threes, Kanter did a really credible man-on-man vs. a guy who is a top 5 mvp candidate; Portland defenders stayed on the shooters, goes a long way to helping to explain.
**** Also, sooner or later Denver's inexperience had to show up, that's just how it is..