Malone Clarifies: Jokic Is His MVP Choice, Not Gilgeous-Alexander

David

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Post on May 24, 2025

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Malone Clarifies: Jokic, Not Gilgeous-Alexander, is His MVP Choice

The NBA MVP race has been a nail-biter this season, with several players putting up phenomenal performances. Two names consistently at the top? Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. But recent comments from Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone have seemingly put an end to any lingering ambiguity regarding his MVP pick.

Malone, known for his insightful commentary and unwavering support of his players, recently clarified his stance on the coveted award, definitively stating that Nikola Jokic is his choice for the 2023 NBA MVP. This comes after some initial interpretations of his remarks suggested a potential leaning towards Oklahoma City Thunder's star guard, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Setting the Record Straight: Malone's MVP Declaration

The confusion stemmed from earlier interviews where Malone praised Gilgeous-Alexander's incredible season, highlighting his scoring prowess and overall impact on the Thunder. He rightfully acknowledged SGA's exceptional performance, calling him a "fantastic player" and a "special talent." However, this praise was misinterpreted by some as an endorsement for Gilgeous-Alexander over Jokic.

Malone's recent clarification leaves no room for doubt. In a press conference, he stated unequivocally that while he admires Gilgeous-Alexander's game, Jokic remains his top choice for the MVP award. He emphasized Jokic's consistent dominance, his unparalleled all-around skillset, and his crucial role in the Nuggets' success this season.

Jokic's MVP Case: A Statistical Domination

Jokic's case for the MVP is undeniably strong. He’s consistently delivered near triple-double averages, showcasing his remarkable ability to score, rebound, and assist at an elite level. Beyond the raw numbers, his court vision, basketball IQ, and leadership have been instrumental in guiding the Nuggets to a top seed in the Western Conference. His impact extends beyond the box score, making him a truly unique and dominant force in the NBA.

• Statistical Prowess: Jokic's averages speak for themselves. He's consistently ranked among the league leaders in points, rebounds, and assists.
• Team Success: The Nuggets’ success is inextricably linked to Jokic's performance. His leadership and playmaking ability have been crucial in their playoff push.
• Unmatched Versatility: Jokic's ability to impact the game in multiple ways sets him apart. He's a scoring threat, a dominant rebounder, and a masterful playmaker all rolled into one.

The SGA Factor: A Rising Star's Impact

While Jokic may be Malone's pick, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's season shouldn't be overlooked. He's been instrumental in the Oklahoma City Thunder's surprising resurgence, showcasing an impressive scoring ability and becoming a true franchise cornerstone. His individual brilliance is undeniable, and he remains a strong contender in the MVP conversation.

However, the difference lies in the overall context. While SGA led a rebuilding team to surprising success, Jokic has been the driving force behind a championship contender. This contextual difference, combined with Jokic's statistical dominance, likely solidifies Malone's preference.

Conclusion: A Clear MVP Choice

Michael Malone's clarification puts the matter to rest. While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has had a stellar season, Nikola Jokic remains the coach's top choice for the MVP award. The debate among fans and analysts will likely continue, but Malone's statement provides valuable insight into the thinking of one of the league's most respected coaches. The final decision, of course, rests with the voters, but Jokic's chances appear strong based on his sustained excellence. Now, all eyes are on the announcement! Who do you think should win the MVP? Let us know in the comments below.