In a stunning twist to an already dramatic end to the Denver Nuggets’ 2024–25 regular season, former head coach Michael Malone, who was abruptly fired just three games before the playoffs, has reportedly sent a powerful and emotional message to interim head coach David Adelman, addressing the team’s culture, leadership, and future.
The Message: “Protect What We Built”
According to sources close to the situation, Malone’s message to Adelman was delivered via a handwritten note and later confirmed in a private locker-room speech the day after his dismissal. In it, he urged Adelman and the players to “protect what we built” — referring to the foundation of trust, defense-first mentality, and team chemistry that led the Nuggets to their 2023 NBA title and years of consistent success.
“This isn’t about me. It never was,” Malone reportedly told Adelman. “This is about keeping the fire alive. Stay true to who we are. Don’t let pressure break what took years to build.”
Fallout from the Sudden Firing
Malone’s firing, which came after a brief losing skid and reported tensions with the front office over rotational decisions, shocked the league and even blindsided some Nuggets players.
Multiple reports suggested that Malone and GM Calvin Booth clashed over the usage of aging veterans versus developing younger talent late in the season. When the team dropped 4 of 5 games heading into April, management opted for a dramatic change — despite the team being firmly in playoff position.
Adelman Thrust Into Spotlight
David Adelman, Malone’s lead assistant and long-time confidant, was named interim head coach and has led the Nuggets through the early stages of the postseason. Adelman has leaned heavily on the structure Malone put in place, but is reportedly also making tweaks to offensive spacing and transition tempo.
In a brief comment after practice today, Adelman acknowledged Malone’s message:
“Mike’s passion for this team is unmatched. What he built here — it’s the reason I’m able to stand here today. I intend to honor that.”
Players React
Star center Nikola Jokić, who was visibly emotional after Malone’s departure, told reporters:
“He was more than a coach. He believed in us when no one did. What he told Coach Adelman — that’s how we all feel. We’re not letting this slip away.”
What’s Next for Malone?
Malone is expected to be one of the most sought-after names on the coaching market this offseason, with multiple teams reportedly already reaching out to gauge his interest.
Still, sources say he remains emotionally invested in the Nuggets — at least for now — and hopes Adelman and the team finish what they started.
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