Nikola Jokic’s Real Role In Mike Malone’s Firing
Nikola Jokic's Real Role In Mike Malone's Firing
The Denver Nuggets made a shocking decision on Tuesday by firing head coach Michael Malone and parting ways with general manager Calvin Booth.
This move comes at a critical time, with only three games remaining in the regular season and the team currently at 47-32, dangerously close to falling into the play-in tournament after a four-game losing streak in April.
Malone had been Denver’s head coach since 2015, coinciding with Nikola Jokic’s entry into the league. During their time together, Jokic developed into an extraordinary talent, earning seven All-Star selections and three MVP awards. The partnership reached its pinnacle in 2023 when the Nuggets captured their first NBA championship.
While Jokic did not directly request Malone’s removal, his visible frustration throughout the season appears to have influenced ownership’s decision. Team owner Josh Kroenke made this high-stakes move despite Malone being the only NBA coach Jokic has ever played for.
“Nikola Jokic was informed of the decision earlier today before it was announced today, per sources. Jokic had not requested a change in front office or coaching, though his evident frustration with this season played a part in ownership’s decision-making process,” Matt Moore reported this week.
Behind the scenes, tensions had been brewing between Malone and Booth over fundamental disagreements regarding team direction and roster construction. These conflicts ultimately contributed to both losing their positions within the organization.
The timing of these firings is particularly notable given the Nuggets’ current position in the Western Conference standings. With the playoffs approaching, Denver must quickly adapt to new leadership if they hope to defend their title.
Key factors in the Nuggets’ decision:
- Performance concerns: The team’s recent losing streak and underperformance relative to championship expectations
- Internal conflicts: Reported disagreements between coaching staff and front office
- Star player frustration: Jokic’s evident dissatisfaction with the team’s direction
- Championship window: Urgency to maximize remaining opportunities with the current roster
This abrupt leadership change represents a significant gamble by the Nuggets organization, betting that a new coaching approach can reinvigorate the team before the postseason begins. How Jokic and the rest of the roster respond to this dramatic shift could determine whether Denver can mount another serious playoff run.
A longtime sports reporter, Carlos Garcia has written about some of the biggest and most notable athletic events of the last 5 years. He has been credentialed to cover MLS, NBA and MLB games all over the United States. His work has been published on Fox Sports, Bleacher Report, AOL and the Washington Post.
