Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone criticized the NBA for being ‘soft’ on conditioning after the team’s preseason loss to the Phoenix Suns. Malone expressed his disappointment with the lack of conditioning in the league and emphasized the importance of staying in top shape throughout the season.
During the game, Malone pushed his starting unit to play the entire third quarter to test their endurance. He specifically called out Nikola Jokic, Michael Porter Jr., Aaron Gordon, and Russell Westbrook for their efforts. Malone highlighted the need for players to be in peak condition, especially after the Nuggets ran out of gas in last season’s playoffs.
Despite losing key player Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in the offseason, the Nuggets are still considered championship contenders with Jokic leading the team. Malone’s focus on conditioning early in the season could give Denver an edge over their competitors in the Western Conference.
Porter Jr. echoed Malone’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of being well-conditioned to seize opportunities on the court. With the coach’s public criticism and the team’s determination to improve their fitness levels, the Nuggets are poised to be a force to be reckoned with this season. Opposing teams should be wary of a more conditioned and competitive Denver squad in the upcoming games.
