In a surprising yet intriguing twist, Nikola Jokic may now have an unexpected ally in Mouse Country, with former Nuggets head coach Michael Malone stepping into a new role at ESPN. As fans grapple with the current state of the NFL and the fate of their beloved Rockies, Malone’s transition from the court to the broadcasting booth has captured the attention of basketball aficionados and casual viewers alike.
Malone, who made headlines as the all-time leader in both regular-season and playoff wins for the Nuggets, isn’t just back on the radar; he’s back with a vengeance. ESPN’s president, Jimmy Pitaro, officially announced that Malone will join the network’s “NBA Countdown” show as a regular contributor for the upcoming 2025-26 season. This marks a significant career shift for the beloved coach, who is well-versed in navigating the complexities of basketball discussions.
The transition to television should come as no surprise. Known for his charismatic presence, Malone has always been comfortable in front of the camera, often engaging with both fans and the media during his tenure in Denver. Even when faced with tough questions, he exhibited the ability to articulate basketball nuances clearly and concisely—qualities that will serve him well in his new role. Viewers can expect him to break down plays and strategies, providing insights that are accessible to anyone, regardless of their basketball expertise.
The Unfiltered Malone
What sets Malone apart in this new endeavor is his unfiltered approach. A die-hard New Yorker, he has never shied away from sharing his thoughts—on anything, really. His memorable one-liners and unapologetic trash talk have been highlights for Nuggets fans, likely making his transition to TV even more anticipated. For instance, his famous jab at Lakers fans from 2018—“take that ‘L’ on the way out”—is a quip that will echo in the hearts of Denver supporters for years to come.
However, Malone’s new position comes with its own set of challenges. During the 2025 Western Conference finals, he found himself navigating the tricky waters of public perception when he sang the praises of Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, calling him “MVP-worthy.” While his intention was to commend the outstanding player, it sparked backlash back home in Denver. In his prior role as coach, he would have had a stronghold over the narrative, firmly positioning Jokic as the MVP. But in the expansive media landscape of ESPN, every statement carries weight—something Malone is now keenly aware of.
Historically, the MVP conversation has been turbulent for Jokic. During the 2022-23 season, he was a runner-up to Joel Embiid, despite finishing as MVP in the following year. This past season saw a role reversal with Gilgeous-Alexander taking the MVP trophy, while Jokic, with his impressive stats of nearly 30 points, 13 rebounds, and over 10 assists per game, found himself in the second spot once more. The back-and-forth of these awards has created a complicated narrative, one Malone now has the opportunity to influence from a different angle.
As a former coach, Malone always stood firmly behind his players, with Jokic being a focal point for his unwavering support. The Serbian center has been at the receiving end of some unfair critiques over the years, despite an impressive record that includes three MVP titles. The question remains: will Malone be able to shift the prevailing biases against Jokic within the walls of ESPN, particularly given the network’s history of favoring popular narratives?
While Malone’s impact on the Joker’s reputation at ESPN remains to be seen, the basketball community is undoubtedly eager to watch how he navigates these new waters. His sincerity and straightforwardness could serve as a refreshing change in the often convoluted narratives surrounding the NBA, providing a nuanced perspective that could challenge preconceived notions.
For die-hard Nuggets fans and basketball enthusiasts, this new chapter for Malone is more than just a career move; it’s a chance to see a favorite voice return to the spotlight, potentially altering the ongoing narrative of one of the game’s most enigmatic talents, Nikola Jokic.
Want more Nuggets news? Sign up for the Nuggets Insider to get all our NBA analysis.