Nuggets Coach Malone Sides With Jokic For MVP Over Gilgeous-Alexander

David

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Post on May 24, 2025

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Malone Throws His Weight Behind Jokic: Nuggets Coach Sides with the "Joker" in MVP Race Over SGA

The NBA MVP race is heating up, and Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone has made his preference abundantly clear: Nikola Jokic is his pick for the award, even over the surging Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. This bold declaration ignites the ongoing debate surrounding the league's most prestigious individual honor.

Malone's endorsement isn't surprising given Jokic's unparalleled impact on the Nuggets' success. The two-time MVP is averaging a near triple-double, showcasing his remarkable all-around game. But the emergence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) as an MVP frontrunner, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to unexpected heights, makes this year's race particularly compelling.

Jokic's Statistical Dominance and Leadership

Jokic's consistent brilliance is undeniable. His ability to orchestrate the Nuggets' offense, coupled with his surprisingly effective rebounding and scoring prowess, makes him a truly unique player. Beyond the statistics, his leadership and court vision are instrumental in Denver's playoff push.

• Triple-Double Threat: Jokic's near-triple-double averages solidify his claim as a statistical powerhouse.
• Offensive Maestro: His playmaking abilities are second to none, consistently finding open teammates and controlling the pace of the game.
• Rebounding Prowess: For a center of his size, Jokic displays remarkable ability on the boards, contributing significantly to Denver's overall game.

Malone emphasized Jokic's consistent excellence throughout the season, highlighting his ability to maintain a high level of play night after night. This consistency, argues Malone, is a key differentiator in the MVP conversation.

SGA's Breakout Season Challenges Jokic's Reign

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, however, presents a formidable challenge. His individual brilliance has propelled the Oklahoma City Thunder to a surprising playoff contention. SGA's scoring efficiency, coupled with his improved playmaking, has captivated NBA fans and analysts alike.

• Scoring Explosions: SGA's ability to consistently drop 30+ points is a testament to his offensive firepower.
• Improved Playmaking: He has evolved into a more complete player, showcasing improved passing and court awareness.
• Team Leadership: SGA's leadership has been vital to the Thunder's unexpected success this season.

The contrast between Jokic's established dominance and SGA's breakout season forms the core of the MVP debate. While Jokic boasts a longer history of consistent excellence, SGA's narrative – leading a young team to unexpected success – is equally compelling.

The Verdict Remains Unclear: A Tight MVP Race

Ultimately, the decision rests with the voters. While Malone's endorsement of Jokic is significant, the MVP award is judged on a multitude of factors, including individual statistics, team success, and overall impact. This year's race is incredibly tight, and the final outcome remains uncertain until the official announcement. The debate will undoubtedly continue to rage on until the winner is revealed.

What are your thoughts on the MVP race? Who do you think deserves the award? Let us know in the comments below!