Former Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone, who was recently let go just before the start of the 2025 NBA playoffs, stirred some controversy by endorsing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for the MVP award instead of Nikola Jokić, the player Malone previously coached to three MVP titles from 2021 to 2024. This unexpected turn of support for Gilgeous-Alexander raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.

Malone stated post Game 1 of the Western Conference finals, “Gilgeous-Alexander showed why he’s the MVP.” However, George Karl, who also has a rich history as a Nuggets coach, expressed his dissent regarding this opinion, arguing, “Jokić was the MVP again this season and it wasn’t that close,” through a social media post.

Gilgeous-Alexander is currently considered a strong contender for the MVP this season, boasting impressive performances, including a recent game where he scored 31 points. This was particularly notable as Malone had praised Jokić only two months prior, complicating his current stance. Karl’s advocacy for Jokić emphasizes his belief in the former MVP’s dominance in the league.

###Quotes Karl remarked, “Obviously, Shai is a great player, and if he wins the MVP, he deserves it. But I think Jokić’s accomplishments should not be overlooked.”

The MVP discussion also includes Giannis Antetokounmpo, making it a competitive field once again. Should Gilgeous-Alexander secure the title, it would be his first. Conversely, another win for Jokić would push him closer to becoming one of the most decorated MVPs in history, alongside legends like LeBron James and Wilt Chamberlain.