Nuggets insider Matt Moore My understanding is that Jokic spoke with ownership this week and there was never a question to Jokic on firing Malone It's been evident he's not been happy and that was part of the equation of what led to the decision to fire Malone

The Portland crowd sings to Melo during the game to celebrate his special day

Michael 'Michael' Malone on SGA's whistle Favorable

With under a minute left, Jokic drills the stepback to give the Nuggets the lead, getting his 30th point of the game in the process.

Nikola Jokic mistakes Wilson Chandler for Kenneth Faried