Michael Malone Backtracks After Shocking Statement: Is He Truly Loyal to Nikola Jokic or Just Putting Out the Fire of Nuggets Fans’ Anger?

In a move that shocked the NBA community and sparked intense debate, the Denver Nuggets fired head coach Michael Malone just three games before the end of the 2024-25 regular season. The decision was unexpected, controversial, and even more startling given Malone’s undeniable impact on the franchise—including guiding the Nuggets to their first-ever NBA championship in 2023.

Since his departure, Malone has taken a temporary pivot in his career, joining ESPN’s broadcast team for the 2025 NBA Playoffs. And it was in this new role, during the pregame coverage of Game 2 between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Oklahoma City Thunder, that Malone took the opportunity to deliver a powerful statement—one directly tied to Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets’ cornerstone superstar.

Malone Speaks Out Amid Jokic MVP Controversy

The buzz surrounding Nikola Jokic has been palpable throughout the season. Coming off another historic year statistically and as the leader of a competitive Nuggets squad, many believed he was a frontrunner for the 2025 NBA MVP award. However, in a surprise turn, the title went to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

This decision did not sit well with many Nuggets fans, some of whom turned their frustration toward Michael Malone, perhaps viewing his public absence of support for Jokic as part of the reason behind the MVP snub.

Malone, well aware of this brewing narrative, made it clear during the ESPN broadcast that his loyalties remained firm:

“I did vote for him again this year, if I had to vote,” Malone declared. “I want to make sure the people of Denver know that, because right now I’m getting a lot of heat back.”

This emphatic defense of Nikola Jokic not only demonstrated Malone’s ongoing respect for the Serbian big man but also served as a direct response to the growing criticism he’s faced since parting ways with the franchise.

Why the Backlash Toward Michael Malone?

It’s no secret that the firing of Michael Malone came as a surprise. After all, he had led Denver through its most successful era, bringing consistency, culture, and championship pedigree to a team long overshadowed in the Western Conference.

So why the sudden hostility?

Much of it stems from a sense of betrayal felt by fans who believed Malone and Jokic shared a special bond—one that extended beyond the hardwood. With Malone no longer at the helm, some supporters felt he should have been more vocal about Jokic’s MVP candidacy, especially given the national media’s narrative favoring other players.

Adding to the confusion is the fact that Malone, now in a media role, has a unique platform to express his views—yet hadn’t done so publicly until Thursday night. That silence, perceived by some as indifference, led to a degree of misdirected backlash.

Malone’s Legacy in Denver is Undeniable

Despite the current noise, Michael Malone’s tenure with the Nuggets will go down as one of the most successful coaching stints in the team’s history. Hired in 2015, Malone took a struggling franchise and turned it into a perennial playoff contender, culminating in a 471-327 record and multiple playoff runs—including a 2023 championship.

He was also named Western Conference Coach of the Month on multiple occasions and became a beloved figure among the Denver faithful. His connection with Nikola Jokic was especially pivotal. Many credit Malone with helping Jokic blossom from a second-round pick into a two-time MVP and arguably the most versatile center the game has ever seen.

Jokic and Malone: A Unique Partnership

Throughout their years together, Jokic and Malone formed one of the NBA’s most symbiotic coach-player relationships. Malone trusted Jokic’s unorthodox style and high basketball IQ, while Jokic thrived under Malone’s flexible yet demanding coaching philosophy.

This relationship was on full display during the 2023 championship run, where Jokic averaged nearly a triple-double across the postseason, with Malone constantly praising his big man’s leadership, humility, and impact on both ends of the court.

So when Jokic lost the 2025 MVP to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the assumption was that Malone, whether still coaching or not, would be among the first to defend his former star.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP Win and Its Impact

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has had an incredible season—there’s no denying that. His performance for the Oklahoma City Thunder has been nothing short of elite, and his MVP win is certainly justifiable from a statistical and narrative standpoint.

But for many in Denver and beyond, Nikola Jokic’s all-around game, consistency, and team leadership were deserving of another MVP trophy. The debate isn’t necessarily anti-Shai—it’s pro-Jokic.

That’s why Malone’s defense of Jokic on live television held such weight. It wasn’t just a statement about an MVP vote; it was a reaffirmation of loyalty, respect, and belief in the player he helped develop into a global superstar.

Why Malone’s Voice Still Matters

Though no longer on the sidelines, Michael Malone remains a key figure in the Denver Nuggets’ story. His public statements carry significant influence, and his commentary on Nikola Jokic’s MVP snub adds fuel to an already heated conversation.

By saying, “I did vote for him if I had the chance,” Malone is reminding fans that, even in a different role, his support for Jokic hasn’t wavered.

He also smartly addressed the criticism he’s been receiving, showing a level of transparency that can help mend his relationship with disgruntled Nuggets supporters.

What’s Next for Malone and the Nuggets?

For Michael Malone, the future is wide open. With his coaching résumé and championship pedigree, he’s expected to be a top candidate for any head coaching vacancy that arises in the NBA. His current stint with ESPN may be short-lived, as many teams will no doubt come calling in the offseason.

As for the Denver Nuggets, they now face an identity challenge. Replacing a coach like Malone—who not only won games but developed a winning culture—is no easy task. The pressure will be on the front office to find a coach who can keep the momentum going, especially with Jokic still in his prime.

Fan Reaction: Mixed Emotions in the Mile High City

The Denver fanbase has been vocal—on both sides of the argument. While some appreciate Malone’s recent comments about Jokic, others believe the damage has already been done.

Still, the more optimistic fans are choosing to see Malone’s statement as a peace offering, a sign that he still cares deeply about the franchise, the city, and the players he once led.

The truth is, Malone will forever be a part of Denver Nuggets lore, and his relationship with Nikola Jokic will be remembered as one of the great coach-superstar duos of the modern NBA era.

Conclusion: Loyalty, Legacy, and A Statement That Matters

In the wake of an emotional coaching departure and an MVP controversy, Michael Malone’s strong support for Nikola Jokic serves as a reminder of the deep bonds forged in the grind of professional basketball. While the Nuggets look toward a new era, it’s clear that the past—especially the golden years guided by Malone—still casts a long and meaningful shadow.

For fans wondering where Malone’s heart lies, his latest appearance on ESPN left no doubt. He may be off the bench, but when it comes to defending Nikola Jokic, Michael Malone is still in the fight.

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