Malone Backs Jokic MVP
In a league teeming with talent, the MVP discussion is never short on drama, and Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone has made it clear where his allegiance lies. Despite a stellar season from Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Malone didn’t mince words when reaffirming that Nikola Joki? is his pick for the NBA’s most prestigious individual honor.
“Let’s Clear the Air”
During a passionate pregame media session ahead of Denver’s clash with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Malone addressed recent murmurs suggesting he favored Gilgeous-Alexander over the Serbian superstar. The comment in question, which surfaced earlier this week, sparked widespread social media controversy after many interpreted it as a subtle pivot away from Joki?.
Malone wasted no time setting the record straight.
“Let me just say this because I know there’s been stuff out there: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a great player. He’s had a hell of a season. But Nikola Joki? is, was, and will be my MVP,” Malone said sternly. “Let’s not get it twisted.”
Consider the air officially cleared.
Context Behind the Quake
It all started when Malone, during a TNT broadcast last week, made complimentary remarks about Gilgeous-Alexander’s artistry on the court. That soundbite was quickly snapped up by NBA Twitter and spun into speculative chaos: Was Malone favoring SGA for MVP over the guy who has redefined the center position and arguably the game itself?
The answer? A firm no. Malone explained that his comments were taken out of context and that giving praise to one player doesn’t mean walking back support for anotherespecially not someone like Joki?, who’s been at the center (pun very much intended) of everything Denver has built.
Joki?: The Pillar of the Nuggets Dynasty
The 29-year-old Joki? has made MVP-caliber performances feel almost routine. A two-time MVP already, he’s put up monster numbers this season, averaging 26.5 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game while shooting an efficient 58.4% from the field. Whether it’s no-look dimes, filthy footwork in the paint, or reigning chaos from beyond the arc, the man makes basketball IQ and finesse look almost unfair.
And let’s not forget: Joki?’s magic isn’t just in the numbers. It’s in the pace he dictates, the gravity he commands, and the calm leadership that has turned the Nuggets into a legitimate title threat year after year. Coaches knowand Malone knows better than anyoneyou don’t build a contender without someone like Joki? at the core.
Gilgeous-Alexander Isn’t Going Anywhere
None of this is a knock on Shai. The Thunder star has transcended expectations this season, blossoming into one of the league’s most complete guards. With silky handles, lethal midrange pull-ups, and a knack for locking up premier scorers on defense, SGA’s candidacy is very real.
But for Malone, admiration doesn’t equal endorsement. Complimenting Gilgeous-Alexander is just being respectful of the competition. Endorsing Joki?, on the other hand, is personal, earned, and above all else, consistent.
The Most Valuable Discussion
As the MVP debate heats up, it remains less about discrediting one player and more about appreciating the impossibly high bar these athletes set. Malone’s clarity only fuels the narrative that the award isn’t just about statsit’s also about impact, leadership, and the intangible brilliance that separates the best from the rest.
With just weeks left in the regular season, the race remains tight. Jokic’s blend of consistency, dominance, and team success makes him a formidable favorite. But the conversation isn’t going away anytime soonand neither is the fervor surrounding it.
Final Word from the Mile High
Malone closed the door with perhaps the most telling quote of the day:
“People try to twist words to fit narratives. But my narrative? It’s simple. Nikola Joki? is the best player in the world. Period.”
In a league that loves a good headline, perhaps the most compelling one is this: The MVP still goes through Denver.
