Quick Hands & Mile High Defense: Who Tops the Denver Nuggets’ All-Time Steals List?
When you think of Denver Nuggets basketball, high-flying offense and the thin air advantage often come to mind. From the run-and-gun days of the 80s to the current Jokić-led dynasty, scoring has frequently been the signature. But championships, and indeed successful eras, are built on more than just points. Defense matters, and disrupting opponents with timely steals is a crucial part of that equation.
So, who are the players who have mastered the art of the takeaway for the Nuggets throughout their history? Inspired by a recent look at the numbers on NBA.com, let’s dive into the franchise’s all-time leaders in steals.
The Untouchable King: Fat Lever
Sitting comfortably atop the Mile High steals mountain is Lafayette “Fat” Lever. With an incredible 1,167 steals during his Nuggets tenure (1984-1990), Lever wasn’t just a steals machine; he was an all-around statistical marvel, often flirting with triple-doubles. His quick hands and court awareness made him a constant threat in passing lanes, embodying the fast-paced style of 80s Nuggets basketball. His record remains significantly ahead of the pack.
The Scoring Machine Who Could Pick Pockets: Alex English
Just behind Lever is the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, Alex English. While legendary for his smooth offensive game and prolific scoring (racking up 1,073 steals), English proved he could contribute significantly on the defensive end too during his long and illustrious Nuggets career (1980-1990). His presence near the top highlights his consistency and longevity.
The Defensive Specialist: T.R. Dunn
Nipping at English’s heels is a name perhaps less known to casual fans but revered for his defensive prowess: T.R. Dunn. Playing alongside English and Lever for much of the 80s (1980-1988, plus a return in 1989-1991), Dunn was the designated defensive stopper. His 1,070 steals are a testament to his tenacity, quickness, and focus on disrupting opposing offenses. Having him nearly equal English despite a vastly different offensive role speaks volumes about his defensive impact.
The Original Nugget Pillar: Dan Issel
A foundational piece of the franchise dating back to the ABA days, Dan Issel ranks fourth all-time. Known more for his scoring and rebounding prowess, “The Horse” still managed to accumulate 802 steals over his decade with the Nuggets (1975-1985). His inclusion showcases his overall contribution and importance across different facets of the game during the team’s early NBA years.
The Joker Cracks the Top 5!
Here’s where things get interesting for current fans. Making a recent move up the list into the #5 spot is none other than the reigning Finals MVP, Nikola Jokić! As of the NBA.com article’s data point, Jokić had notched 799 steals, surpassing another Nuggets scoring legend, Carmelo Anthony (798). For a center, whose game is built around vision and passing rather than perimeter defense, to rank so highly is extraordinary. It speaks to Jokić’s incredible basketball IQ, anticipation, and surprisingly quick hands for his size. And the scary part? He’s still climbing.
Defense Wins
While steals aren’t the only measure of defensive ability, this list provides a fascinating glimpse into Nuggets history. It features all-around stars, dedicated specialists, franchise icons, and the current face of the team. These players didn’t just score points; they changed possessions, created fast breaks, and set the tone with their defensive activity.
Who do you think is the most impactful defender in Nuggets history? Can Jokić climb even higher on this list? Let us know in the comments!