Denver Nuggets Fire Head Coach Michael Malone and General Manager Calvin Booth Ahead of Playoffs
April 10, 2025 – Denver, CO
In a stunning move just days before the NBA playoffs, the Denver Nuggets have parted ways with head coach Michael Malone and announced they will not extend the contract of general manager Calvin Booth. Assistant coach David Adelman has been named interim head coach for the remainder of the season. citeturn0news14
Michael Malone’s Tenure and Achievements
Michael Malone, 53, served as the Nuggets’ head coach since the 2015-16 season. Under his leadership, the team secured their first NBA championship in 2023, with a 4-1 series victory over the Miami Heat. Malone’s tenure included multiple playoff appearances, and he was instrumental in developing star center Nikola Jokić into a three-time NBA MVP. His regular-season record with the Nuggets stands at 471 wins and 327 losses, making him the winningest coach in franchise history. citeturn0search21
Calvin Booth’s Departure
Calvin Booth, 46, joined the Nuggets in 2017 as assistant general manager and was promoted to general manager in 2020 following Tim Connelly’s departure. Booth played a pivotal role in constructing the championship-winning roster, including the acquisitions of key veterans like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Ish Smith, and signing versatile wing Bruce Brown and center DeAndre Jordan. In October 2022, he signed a multiyear contract extension, keeping him with the team through the 2024-25 season. citeturn0search1
Team Performance and Rationale for Changes
Despite the recent championship, the Nuggets have faced challenges this season, including a four-game losing streak. As of April 10, the team holds a 47-32 record, placing them in contention for a top-six seed in the Western Conference playoffs. The decision to make significant leadership changes so close to the postseason is unprecedented, reflecting the organization’s urgency to reclaim their championship form. citeturn0news14
Ownership’s Perspective
Team vice chairman Josh Kroenke addressed the changes, stating, “Calvin has been a huge part of what we’ve done here over the last five seasons and I have the utmost confidence in him as our General Manager.” He emphasized the goal of bringing another NBA championship to Denver, indicating that the leadership changes are part of a strategic move to enhance the team’s performance in the upcoming playoffs. citeturn0search1
Looking Ahead
The Nuggets’ immediate focus shifts to the playoffs, with interim head coach David Adelman at the helm. The team will aim to navigate the postseason successfully amid these organizational changes, striving to defend their championship title and solidify their legacy in Denver’s sports history.
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