LeBron’s Old Clapback Ages Like Fire as Malone Falls and Nuggets Unravel
LeBron James hasn’t forgotten how things went down last postseason—and neither have the Lakers. The rivalry with Denver didn’t just show up overnight. It escalated to a new level during the 2023 Western Conference Finals and has lingered ever since. Every time these two squads face off, you can feel the tension bubbling beneath the surface.
The Nuggets have had LA’s number for a while now. They’ve won 14 of their last 17 meetings against the Lakers, including a ruthless stretch of seven straight playoff victories. That kind of dominance doesn’t just go unnoticed—it leaves a scar. And while it’s not the most brutal losing streak a team has endured in the last two decades, it’s enough to fuel a long-standing grudge. Especially when you throw in the history between LeBron and Michael Malone.
Malone, the same coach who led Denver to its first-ever NBA title in 2023 and kept the Nuggets in playoff form for eight straight seasons, is no longer in charge. On Tuesday, the franchise made the surprising decision to part ways with him. And suddenly, an old LeBron Instagram post from last year is making the rounds again—for all the right reasons.
When Malone tossed a few subtle shots during Denver’s championship celebration, LeBron clapped back in typical King James fashion. “Enjoy your light but just know I’m the SUN. Stay on forever,” he posted. At the time, it felt like classic NBA shade. But now? With Malone out and LeBron still suiting up for the purple and gold at age 40, it feels almost prophetic.
Meanwhile, the cracks in Denver’s armor have widened. Their defense has fallen apart, currently sitting at 20th in the league—a dangerous spot for a team hoping to contend. Despite Nikola Jokic putting up monster numbers—averaging 45 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 10.7 assists this month—the Nuggets have dropped four straight, including games they were expected to win easily, like the one against the Spurs.
Now clinging to the fourth seed by a thread, Denver’s playoff future looks shaky. While the Nuggets try to hold things together post-Malone, LeBron’s legacy continues to burn bright. He wasn’t lying when he called himself the sun—because he’s still shining while others fade.
