Michael Malone, the architect of the Denver Nuggets’ golden era and the franchise’s winningest coach of all time, has resurfaced in a way that no one expected — and fans are buzzing.
After leading the Nuggets to their first-ever NBA championship and securing six straight playoff appearances, Malone was shockingly let go just three games before the 2024–25 regular season concluded. The decision sent ripples through the basketball world, as many believed Malone had solidified his legacy in Denver with stars like Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray under his wing.
Now, in a twist that has left Nuggets fans stunned and curious, Malone has returned to the public eye — but not on the bench.
Instead, the former head coach has officially joined ESPN as a contributor for the network’s Western Conference Finals coverage. This marks his first major move since being dismissed from the Nuggets, and it’s already sparking major conversations across social media.
He’s appearing on the highly visible “NBA Countdown” panel, alongside top analysts like Malika Andrews, Stephen A. Smith, Kendrick Perkins, Bob Myers, and Shams Charania. For fans used to seeing Malone animated on the sidelines, clipboard in hand, it’s a striking change in scenery.
Is this Malone’s new calling, or simply a detour while he waits for the next elite coaching opportunity?
Many insiders believe this ESPN gig could serve multiple purposes: a strategic move to keep his basketball insights in the spotlight, a temporary change of pace, or even a trial run at a full-time media career. Given Malone’s candid, no-nonsense style and deep basketball IQ, he’s already being praised for his on-air presence — with some viewers saying he’s “better than half the panel already.”
Still, Nuggets Nation is feeling the emotional impact.
“It’s weird not seeing him with the team,” one longtime fan shared. “He built something special here. Watching him talk about the playoffs instead of leading a team through them just feels… off.”
The transition also comes at a turbulent time for the Nuggets, who were eliminated in a crushing Game 7 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder under interim coach David Adelman. Some fans are questioning whether the decision to part ways with Malone was premature — and whether this playoff exit could’ve been avoided with him still at the helm.
Regardless of what’s next, Malone’s sudden leap into broadcasting shows he isn’t fading from relevance anytime soon.
In fact, he might just be entering an entirely new era — and fans will be watching closely to see whether he stays behind the desk… or returns to the sidelines with another championship in his sight.
