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Former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone sparked a flurry of debate earlier this week when he publicly lauded Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as a potential MVP candidate. However, during a recent appearance, Malone clarified his comments, emphatically stating that reigning MVP Nikola Jokic remains his top choice for the prestigious award.

The initial praise for Gilgeous-Alexander, who has enjoyed a breakout season leading the Thunder to unexpected heights, certainly caught the attention of Nuggets fans in Denver. Malone's comments seemed to suggest a shift in his perspective, leading many to question his loyalty to the team he previously coached. Understandably, the reaction was swift and intense.

Addressing the speculation directly, Malone explained that his remarks were intended to acknowledge Gilgeous-Alexander’s impressive performance and the Thunder's overall success. “Look, Shai is having an incredible year, and the Thunder are a fantastic team,” Malone stated. “I wanted to give him credit where credit is due. But let’s be clear: Nikola Jokic is still the MVP.”

Malone went on to highlight Jokic's continued dominance and unparalleled impact on the game. “What Nikola does for that team is just…special,” Malone elaborated. “His passing, his scoring, his rebounding – he does it all at an elite level. He elevates the play of everyone around him. It's a privilege to have watched him play and coach him.”

The clarification should appease Nuggets fans who felt slighted by Malone’s initial comments. It reaffirms his respect for Jokic and his recognition of the Serbian center’s extraordinary talent. The MVP race is always a hotly contested affair, and while Gilgeous-Alexander has certainly emerged as a legitimate contender, Malone’s words make it clear where his allegiance lies.

The Thunder’s impressive season has been a story of the year, with Gilgeous-Alexander leading the charge. His scoring prowess and improved playmaking have transformed the Thunder into a legitimate playoff threat. However, dethroning Jokic, who is putting up historic numbers and leading the Nuggets to contention, will be a monumental task.

Malone’s backtracking underscores the delicate balance coaches must strike when praising opposing players, particularly when dealing with passionate fan bases. His clarification serves as a reminder that while recognizing excellence is important, loyalty to one’s former team often carries significant weight.

Ultimately, the MVP award will be decided by voters, but Malone’s endorsement of Jokic provides a strong signal of the respect he holds for the two-time reigning champion. The debate will continue, but one thing is certain: Nikola Jokic remains the frontrunner in the MVP race.