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Nuggets’ HC Michael Malone opens up on Nikola Jokic’s MVP race chances

The Denver Nuggets are in one of their best stretches this season, establishing themselves as NBA title contenders. Their star player Nikola Jokic is enjoying one of the finest seasons of his career. Following his impressive form, head coach Michael Malone praised his star's remarkable performance.

Head coach Michael Malone of the Denver Nuggets directs his team against the Portland Trail Blazers in the first quarter at Ball Arena on February 10, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.
© Matthew Stockman/Getty ImagesHead coach Michael Malone of the Denver Nuggets directs his team against the Portland Trail Blazers in the first quarter at Ball Arena on February 10, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

The Denver Nuggets are enjoying an incredible season, establishing themselves as one of the top teams in the Western Conference. They have held a strong position at the top for much of the season’s early stages. Head coach Michael Malone has built an impressive team around Nikola Jokic, who continues to prove he’s one of the league’s best players. Jokic leads the team statistically in nearly every category. Following their recent success, Malone took a moment to praise his superstar.

If you didn’t know that Nikola won three MVPs and I put Player A and Player B on paper, and you had no idea that the guy that’s averaging a triple-double, the guy who’s top-three in the three major statistical categories. Things that no one’s ever done, he wins the MVP 10 times out of 10,” stated Michael Malone.

Nikola Jokic delivered an impressive performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder. He scored 35 points, grabbed 18 rebounds, and added 8 assists. His ability to impact both ends of the court stood out once again. Jokic’s presence also helps his teammates improve. Jamal Murray has benefited greatly from this. He has averaged 21.5 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game this season. Statistically, Murray is the team’s second-best offensive player.

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One of the most crucial parts of the season is still ahead, as the NBA playoffs could be a deciding factor. However, it’s unlikely that Nikola Jokic’s performance will decline significantly before the season ends.

Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets looks on against the Chicago Bulls during the first half at the United Center.

Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets looks on against the Chicago Bulls during the first half at the United Center.

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Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to prove he’s a top contender for the 2025 NBA MVP award. The remainder of the season will play a key role in determining the winner. For now, the MVP race remains wide open.

Nuggets star Nikola Jokic makes honest admission regarding the MVP race

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Nikola Jokic dominates as the NBA’s most efficient player on 2024-25 season

While the MVP race remains wide open, Nikola Jokic is firmly in the conversation for the league’s top honor. The Nuggets star has been the most efficient player of the 2024-25 NBA season, posting a 32.3 rating according to StatMuse. With Denver competing strongly in the playoff race, Jokic’s consistent excellence strengthens his case as a leading MVP contender.

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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains close behind Nikola Jokic. According to StatMuse, the Oklahoma City Thunder star holds an impressive 31 rating. While Gilgeous-Alexander is enjoying an outstanding season, Jokic has proven to be both more complete and more efficient. However, the MVP race is far from decided, and the final stretch of the season will be crucial.

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