The fallout from the Denver Nuggets’ controversial firing of head coach Michael Malone continues as people around the league try to understand the decision after 10 successful seasons, including a 2023 championship, especially with the playoffs approaching.
Did Michael Malone Lose the Nuggets Locker Room?
According to Sam Amick and Tony Jones’s article, while star Nikola Jokić received leniency, affording future Hall of Famer Russell Westbrook the same “special treatment” reportedly divided the locker room.
Westbrook is in the twilight of his career but was once one of the league’s premier talents. In 2016-2017, he was named NBA MVP after finishing as just the second player in league history to finish the season averaging a triple-double.
While a specific turning point isn’t clear, Westbrook’s errors in their double-overtime defeat against the Timberwolves likely contributed. He missed a point-blank layup and then fouled Alexander-Walker at the buzzer, negating Jokić’s 61-point performance.
Despite recent criticisms, Westbrook has worked to support Jamal Murray, who has had another injury-plagued season.
However, Westbrook’s future seems uncertain. Without Malone’s “special treatment,” his minutes will likely decrease under interim coach David Adelman.
Despite the timing, the Nuggets reportedly believe the move was necessary to resolve locker room issues and a declining relationship between leadership. Sources indicate that these factors led to general manager Calvin Booth being “done with Michael Malone.”
Interestingly, after their recent win over the Sacramento Kings, Jokić stated post-game that he was not consulted on the firing and was informed of the decision by ownership, describing it as a “heavy day.”
Jokić is having another unbelievable season in 2024-2025. Already a three-time NBA MVP, he is all but guaranteed to finish in the top two in voting once again. It would mark his fifth consecutive season finishing either first or second in MVP balloting and his seventh straight season finishing in the top 10.
Opportunity for David Adelman
The organization also reportedly wants to give assistant David Adelman an opportunity to earn the head coaching job permanently. He will take over on an interim basis. According to the Amick and Jones his calm demeanor is seen as a contrast to Malone’s fiery one.
In a surprising development, owner Josh Kroenke also fired Calvin Booth. It is questionable whether removing the coach and GM before the playoffs will aid their title aspirations. However, the ‘Post-Malone’ era began with a 124-116 victory over the Sacramento Kings, highlighted by Jokić’s 33rd triple-double of the season.
Regardless, the upcoming offseason is crucial for the Nuggets, who are expected to seek a strong supporting player for Jokić to extend his prime. The situation in Denver is evolving rapidly.