The Coaching Bombshell That Redefined MVP Criteria

The 2024-25 NBA season will be remembered for more than spectacular court action - it became the stage for former Denver Nuggets coach Mike Malone's seismic MVP declaration. Fired three games before playoffs, Malone stunned basketball circles during ESPN's Western Conference Finals coverage by crowning Oklahoma City Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) as the true MVP over his former star Nikola Jokic.

Statistical Showdown: Breaking Down the MVP Case

Jokic's credentials seemed unassailable: 31.5 points, 13.0 rebounds, and 9.7 assists with 55.3% field goal accuracy. His 32.1 PER and 64.2% true shooting percentage redefined big-man efficiency. Yet SGA countered with 31.3 points on 52.4% shooting, leading OKC to a historic 68-14 record while joining Michael Jordan in the exclusive 30/5/5/1.5/1 club.

Malone’s Dramatic Reversal: From Advocate to Critic

The coaching veteran's pivot shocked observers. In March 2025, while still guiding Denver, Malone had declared Jokic would "win MVP 10 times out of 10." His post-firing analysis took a sharp turn, highlighting SGA's conference finals heroics: "He showed why he's the MVP" during crucial Game 1 moments. This U-turn followed Malone's messy departure from Denver, reportedly over clashes about player development strategies.

Playoff Fallout and Legacy Implications

Interim coach David Adelman nearly salvaged Denver's season, pushing OKC to Game 7 in the semifinals. Jokic's 29/14/8 series averages ultimately couldn't overcome SGA's 31.3-point playoff performances. The Thunder star's narrow 126-point MVP victory margin signaled shifting voter priorities, emphasizing team success and two-way impact (1.7 steals, 1.0 blocks).

The Unresolved Debate: Voter Fatigue or New Standards?

Malone's commentary reignited discussions about Jokic's media narrative and potential voter fatigue. The Serbian center's characteristically humble response - "I just play the game" - contrasted with growing scrutiny of MVP criteria. This saga exposes the NBA's complex reality where coaching relationships, front office politics, and statistical analysis collide to shape legacies.