Malone: Jokic, Not Gilgeous-Alexander, My MVP Pick

David

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Post on May 24, 2025

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Malone: Jokic, Not Gilgeous-Alexander, My MVP Pick

Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone throws his support behind Nikola Jokic in the MVP race, dismissing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's stellar season.

The NBA MVP race is heating up, with several superstars vying for the coveted award. While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's exceptional performance with the Oklahoma City Thunder has garnered significant attention, Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone remains steadfast in his belief that Nikola Jokic deserves the honor. Malone recently declared Jokic as his MVP pick, effectively dismissing Gilgeous-Alexander's compelling candidacy.

This bold statement ignites a fascinating debate amongst basketball analysts and fans alike. Both Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander have delivered historically dominant seasons, leading their respective teams to unexpected success. But Malone's endorsement of Jokic carries significant weight, given his intimate knowledge of the two-time MVP's capabilities.

Jokic's Continued Dominance

Jokic's consistent excellence is undeniable. He's once again showcasing his exceptional all-around game, averaging a near triple-double with remarkable efficiency. Beyond the impressive statistics, his court vision, passing ability, and overall impact on the Nuggets' offensive and defensive strategies are unmatched. Malone highlighted Jokic's leadership and influence on the team's success, stating, "Jokic isn't just putting up numbers; he's orchestrating an entire offense and elevating his teammates." This sentiment speaks to Jokic’s intangible qualities, often overlooked in purely statistical analyses.

Key Aspects of Jokic's MVP Case:

• Statistical Dominance: Consistently near triple-double averages with exceptional shooting percentages.
• Offensive Orchestration: Unmatched playmaking ability and court vision.
• Leadership and Team Impact: Instrumental in the Nuggets' consistent success and high playoff seeding.
• Defensive Improvement: While not a lockdown defender, Jokic has shown noticeable improvement in this area.

Gilgeous-Alexander's Breakout Season

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's rise to superstardom has been nothing short of spectacular. He's single-handedly carried the Oklahoma City Thunder to unexpected competitiveness, showcasing incredible scoring prowess and an increasingly mature all-around game. His scoring efficiency, coupled with his improved playmaking, makes him a strong contender for the MVP award.

Gilgeous-Alexander's Strong Points:

• High-Volume Scoring: Consistently high scoring averages with impressive efficiency.
• Improved Playmaking: Demonstrating growth in facilitating for teammates.
• Carrying a Young Team: Single-handedly leading the Thunder to unexpected success.

The Malone Factor and the MVP Debate

Malone's declaration isn't just a coach's opinion; it adds fuel to the already intense MVP debate. While many analysts consider Gilgeous-Alexander a serious contender, Malone's perspective, based on years of coaching Jokic, provides a compelling counterpoint. The debate now extends beyond mere statistics, encompassing team success, leadership qualities, and overall impact on the game. The upcoming weeks will undoubtedly see further discussion and analysis, shaping the final outcome of this closely contested MVP race.

Ultimately, the decision rests with the voters, who will weigh the merits of both Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander before making their selection. Who do you think deserves the award? Share your thoughts in the comments below!