Kade Simpson (28 disposals) was the only Blues on-baller to collect more than 20 disposals, with stars Marc Murphy (18 disposals) and Chris Judd (17 disposals) having quiet nights by their standards.
Despite that, Carlton managed to build a 35-point lead during the third quarter, and hung on as the Kangaroos stormed home in a pulsating finish.
"I don't think we had a winning mid," Malthouse said after the match.
"We might have broken even with one or two, but by and large they controlled the middle.
"They controlled the stoppages in all except the third quarter, and yet we were still able to win.
"So there are some good things that have come out of it.
"Basically, we played well enough around the flanks to win it, I suppose."
While crediting North Melbourne with running the game out strongly – a trait that has not been synonymous with Brad Scott's team this season – Malthouse also said the Blues could have had the game in their keeping earlier if not for some poor conversion in front of goal.
Carlton had 14 forward 50 entries to the Kangaroos' 13 in the final quarter, but kicked 2.5 to 6.1.
"There's lessons there that when you've got the opportunity, you've got to take that opportunity to kick a goal. That puts things to bed pretty early," Malthouse said.
"That meant that they kept on coming, and full credit to North Melbourne.
"But I also say it's a credit to our blokes. Without any dominant midfield player, to still win was pretty good."
One significant move from Malthouse was the decision to play key position swingman Lachie Henderson forward, despite North Melbourne's tall forward line.
The 23-year-old proved important, booting three goals.
"You've got to hold your nerve a little bit," Malthouse said.
"In the end, you've still got to win the game; you can't save much these days.
"If you get a good lead you can save it, but you've got to be able to generate the scoreboard.
"I suspected with the ability of their backs, who can mark everything that goes near them, we needed to get some pressure on them."
Malthouse said he would consider playing Simon White next week to provide further support in defence.
The Blues have moved inside the eight with the win, but will be displaced if Port Adelaide beats St Kilda on Saturday night.
They face Gold Coast away, Fremantle at home and the Western Bulldogs in the next three weeks as they fight for a place in September.
