The Denver Nuggets have been making waves in the NBA since David Adelman stepped in as the interim head coach. After Denver let go of Michael Malone just before the end of the regular season, Adelman took the reins and led the team to three consecutive wins, securing a 50-32 record and home-court advantage for the playoffs. The Nuggets went on to defeat the Los Angeles Clippers in seven games and put up a tough fight against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite a disappointing loss in Game 7, forward Aaron Gordon publicly voiced his support for Adelman to take on the coaching role full-time, praising his impact on the team and hoping for continuity in the upcoming season.
Adelman’s strategic use of zone defense to slow down Oklahoma City’s offense received praise from players like Jamal Murray, who commended the team’s resilience and adaptability under his leadership. Nikola Jokić, the heart of the Nuggets’ roster, acknowledged the positive changes brought about by Adelman’s coaching style, emphasizing the team’s improved energy and belief in their abilities. While Jokić remained neutral on the question of Adelman’s future with the team, his teammates and opposing coaches recognized the significant impact the interim coach had on the Nuggets’ performance throughout the playoffs.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his position for the next season, Adelman reflected on the team’s remarkable journey under his guidance, highlighting the players’ commitment and unity in the face of adversity. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault commended Adelman for his coaching prowess and the Nuggets’ relentless spirit, acknowledging the tough competition they posed throughout the series. Although Denver’s governor and team president, Josh Kroenke, remained tight-lipped about Adelman’s potential as the permanent head coach, sources indicate that he is a strong candidate for the position moving forward. The Nuggets’ remarkable turnaround under Adelman’s leadership has not gone unnoticed, setting the stage for a promising future for the team.
