Nikola Jokic and Michael Malone helped bring the Denver Nuggets to the forefront of the Western Conference. Both of them arrived in the 2015-16 season and have made the team one of the best in the conference. Although this year may not be the year they break through to the championship, they should have plenty more chances in the future.

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Nuggets and Malone agreed to a multi-year contract extension. His current deal was set to expire after next season. Jokic's contract also expires after that season but with Malone sticking around, it seems like the chances are good that he'll stick around.

Denver released a statement about Malone and what he means to the team.

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“You can easily point to the on-court success that Michael has brought and the improvements the team has made each year under his watch, and you can also point to the selfless, hard-working culture that has developed and grown during his tenure. We look forward to Coach Malone continuing on the sidelines as we all work toward our goal of bringing an NBA Championship to the city of Denver.”

The Nuggets improved in winning percentage each of Malone's first four seasons with the team. Now, it has stabilized around Jokic, who has developed into one of the best players in the NBA. Malone embracing Jokic's one-of-a-kind skill has made him the perfect fit for Denver. He has also helped Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr. develop into fringe stars quickly in their respective careers.

Malone can also hold his team accountable when they need to be. He has an all-time record of 309-237 with the Nuggets and has helped the current core grow into a team that has a solid shot at competing for championships.