From Supporter to Critic: Michael Malone Targets Nikola Jokic After Leaving Nuggets – What’s Going On?

The Denver Nuggets’ unexpected early exit from the 2025 NBA Playoffs has led to shockwaves within the franchise, but no one anticipated the twist that followed: Michael Malone, once the biggest advocate of Nikola Jokic, has now turned into a vocal critic. After parting ways with the Nuggets organization, Malone has taken aim at his former MVP superstar, raising eyebrows across the NBA.

Michael Malone and Nikola Jokic: Once an Unbreakable Bond

For nearly a decade, Michael Malone and Nikola Jokic built something special in Denver. Malone, known for his tough-love coaching style and no-nonsense demeanor, recognized Jokic’s generational talent early on and nurtured it into full bloom. Under his guidance, Jokic became a two-time MVP, an NBA champion, and arguably the best passing big man in the history of basketball.

Malone often went to bat for Jokic in the media, especially when analysts doubted his value or criticized his conditioning. “If you don’t see how great this guy is, then you’re not watching the game,” Malone once said during the 2023 championship run.

But now, that tune has changed—and dramatically.

A Fractured Relationship: What Went Wrong After the 2025 Playoff Collapse?

After the Nuggets were bounced out of the 2025 playoffs in the Western Conference semifinals, rumors swirled that tensions were brewing behind the scenes. Insiders pointed to disagreements between Malone and Jokic over playing time management, defensive schemes, and even locker room leadership.

According to multiple sources, Malone felt Jokic was becoming too comfortable, not holding himself accountable after the team’s elimination. On the other hand, Jokic—never a fan of drama or spotlight—reportedly shut down emotionally, frustrated with the coaching and strategic decisions that led to the team’s early downfall.

The growing divide led to an offseason decision that stunned fans: Michael Malone and the Nuggets “mutually agreed to part ways.”

Michael Malone’s Shocking Comments About Jokic

Following his exit, Michael Malone made several comments in interviews that directly hinted at frustration with Nikola Jokic. In a recent podcast appearance, Malone stated:

“At some point, your best player has to want to lead on both ends of the floor. Talent alone doesn’t win titles. Sacrifice does.”

While he didn’t name Jokic directly, the implication was loud and clear.

In a separate interview with The Denver Times, Malone added:

“You can’t coddle stars forever. You need guys who want to be coached and pushed every single day.”

These words are a stark contrast to the Malone who once celebrated Jokic as the “heart and soul” of the franchise.

Why Is Malone Speaking Out Now?

Many are asking: Why would Michael Malone target Jokic after all these years of support? Analysts believe the answer lies in a mixture of disappointment, frustration, and perhaps a desire to rewrite the narrative.

Malone spent nearly ten years with the Nuggets. He finally won a championship with the team in 2023 and helped turn Jokic into an MVP, but now finds himself out of a job. Some speculate Malone feels underappreciated, especially given how quickly the team decided to move on from him after one playoff failure.

Critics argue that Malone’s comments seem bitter. Former players and analysts have weighed in, with JJ Redick stating on ESPN:

“It’s disappointing to see a coach throw shade at his best player on the way out. Jokic gave everything to that team.”

Nikola Jokic’s Response: Silence Speaks Volumes

True to his character, Nikola Jokic has remained silent. The Serbian superstar is not one for media feuds or online responses. In fact, he’s often described as one of the most private superstars in the league, more interested in horse racing and spending time with his family than NBA gossip.

However, those close to the team report that Jokic was “deeply surprised and hurt” by Malone’s words. A Nuggets assistant coach told The Athletic:

“Nikola trusted Malone like a father. To hear this stuff now? It’s brutal. He never expected it.”

What This Means for the Nuggets Moving Forward

With Malone gone, the Denver Nuggets face a critical turning point. Their window to contend for another title remains open, especially with Jokic in his prime. But this recent drama has sparked questions about team culture, leadership, and stability.

The front office must now hire a new coach who can rebuild the chemistry without alienating Jokic. A wrong move could drive the reigning MVP to reconsider his future in Denver. After all, if Malone—the coach who believed in him more than anyone—can turn on him, what does loyalty mean anymore in the NBA?

Could This Fallout Impact Jokic’s MVP Campaign?

Before the drama, Nikola Jokic was a strong frontrunner for the 2025 NBA MVP, thanks to another dominant season averaging 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists per game. But with Malone’s comments in the background, the media narrative has shifted.

Some voters may start questioning Jokic’s leadership and effort, just as Malone hinted. While it may not be fair, public perception often plays a role in awards season.

That said, many believe the backlash against Malone’s comments will rally support around Jokic, casting him as the victim of an unnecessary smear campaign. Social media has already exploded with hashtags like #InJokicWeTrust and #MaloneWasWrong.

Malone’s Coaching Future: Did He Burn Bridges?

Michael Malone remains one of the most respected minds in the NBA, but his exit from Denver—and the way he handled it—could affect his reputation. Teams might hesitate to hire a coach who publicly criticizes star players after leaving a franchise.

Leadership is not just about strategy; it’s about managing egos, personalities, and relationships. And in that department, Malone’s recent actions may raise red flags.

Jokic’s Future: Will He Stay Loyal to the Nuggets?

Perhaps the biggest question now is whether Nikola Jokic will remain in Denver long-term. He’s always said he values loyalty, simplicity, and stability. But losing his coach, followed by public criticism, could test that loyalty.

If the franchise fails to find the right successor or if tensions continue to rise, a shocking trade demand from Jokic wouldn’t be out of the question—though it’s highly unlikely given his laid-back nature. Still, in the modern NBA, even the most unlikely players can suddenly want out when they feel betrayed.

Conclusion: A Stunning Shift in Denver’s Basketball Story

What started as a fairytale partnership between Michael Malone and Nikola Jokic has ended with bitterness and confusion. Their once-unbreakable bond is now strained, and the Denver Nuggets are caught in the middle of a narrative shift that could define the next chapter of the franchise.

Only time will tell whether Jokic can shake off the criticism and lead the Nuggets back to glory—or if the wounds left by Malone’s exit will haunt the team in seasons to come.

One thing is certain: in the ever-evolving world of the NBA, no partnership is ever safe from the pressures of expectations, egos, and playoff failures.