In an unprecedented move just days before the 2025 NBA Playoffs, the Denver Nuggets have fired head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth. Despite leading the franchise to its first NBA championship in 2023 and securing a seventh consecutive playoff berth, the decision was made following ongoing internal discord that had reportedly divided the locker room and affected team morale.
Internal Discord and Leadership Struggles
Reports indicate that tensions between Malone and Booth had been escalating for months, centered around differing philosophies on team management and player development. Booth’s emphasis on integrating younger players and focusing on long-term growth clashed with Malone’s preference for a more veteran-centric approach. This discord reportedly led to a divided locker room, with players aligning with different sides, creating a challenging environment for team cohesion.
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Kroenke’s Regret and Commitment to Team Success
Nuggets president Josh Kroenke expressed regret over the firings, acknowledging the emotional difficulty of the decision. He emphasized that the move was made with the intention of giving the team the best chance to compete for the 2025 NBA championship and deliver another title to Denver and its fans.
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Interim Leadership Appointments
Assistant coach David Adelman has been appointed as the interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Ben Tenzer, previously serving as the assistant general manager, has been promoted to interim general manager for the playoff run. Both Adelman and Tenzer are tasked with navigating the team through the postseason amid the leadership upheaval.
Looking Ahead
As the Nuggets prepare for their playoff matchup, the team faces the challenge of adapting to new leadership dynamics. The success of this bold move will largely depend on the ability of the interim leadership to unify the team and maintain focus on their championship aspirations. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the long-term impact of this significant organizational change.
