Denver Nuggets' Unexpected Coaching Overhaul Amidst Struggles
In an unexpected turn of events, the Denver Nuggets have dismissed head coach Michael Malone and announced they will not be renewing general manager Calvin Booth’s contract. This shake-up comes just days before the regular season wraps up. The team has called upon David Adelman, their lead assistant coach, to step up as head coach for the season’s final stretch.
The decision is particularly surprising given Malone and Booth’s contribution to the team’s 2023 championship victory. However, the Nuggets are currently on a four-game losing streak with a 47-32 record, risking a drop into the play-in tournament. The team has been grappling with frustration, especially as their three-time MVP Nikola Jokic works to hold things together in the absence of Jamal Murray, who has missed five games due to a hamstring injury. Tensions have been visible on the sidelines, even causing the typically composed Jokic to show rare signs of irritation. The team’s performance has been shaky post All-Star break, with a 11-13 record.
Malone’s dismissal is part of a growing trend. He is now the fourth of the last six NBA Finals-winning coaches to leave their championship team. Internal sources revealed to ESPN that tension between Malone and Booth has been brewing since the team clinched the championship, escalating to a so-called “cold war.” In response to their title win, the Nuggets have favored younger players like Christian Braun and Peyton Watson, complementing their core trio of Jokic, Murray, and Aaron Gordon. Meanwhile, seasoned players such as Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Bruce Brown have departed for more lucrative deals in free agency.
Malone’s tenure spanned a decade, culminating in the franchise’s first NBA championship while maintaining a sterling 471-327 record. “This decision was not made lightly,” expressed Josh Kroenke, vice chairman of Kroenke Sports and Entertainment. “After thorough consideration, we believe this step gives us the best chance to compete for the 2025 NBA Championship and bring another title home to Denver and our global supporters. Though it’s difficult timing, Malone’s work laid the groundwork for our championship-level standard, and we are poised to build upon that foundation as we move forward.”
Booth has served as the Nuggets’ GM for the last three seasons following Tim Connelly’s move to the Minnesota Timberwolves, notably overseeing the 2022-23 championship season. “Calvin Booth’s leadership has been invaluable in assembling the team that secured Denver’s first NBA title,” said Kroenke. “His keen basketball intellect, enthusiasm for scouting, and extensive NBA experience have been pivotal in propelling our organization. His contribution to our success is deeply appreciated and will be cherished in Nuggets’ history.”
Adelman, who has worked alongside Malone for eight seasons, is taking the reins. A prospective candidate for head coaching roles with the Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers last year, he’s now entrusted with leading Jokic and the team without their familiar head coach. “There’s no adequate way to express our gratitude for Malone’s incredible impact since 2015,” Kroenke acknowledged. “We extend our deepest thanks for spearheading the most triumphant era in Nuggets history, culminating in our first championship and setting the all-time wins record.”