In a stunning, last-minute shakeup just days before the playoffs, the Denver Nuggets have officially fired head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth, sources confirmed to ESPN.
This move sends shockwaves across the league.
🏆 End of an Era in Denver
Michael Malone, the winningest coach in franchise history, has been with the team since 2015 and helped transform Denver from a lottery team to NBA champions in 2023. He built a reputation as a culture-setter, a leader who helped develop Nikola Jokić into a two-time MVP and created a consistent Western Conference contender.
But just like that — it’s over.
🔄 Front Office Overhaul: Calvin Booth Also Out
The shakeup goes beyond the court. General Manager Calvin Booth, who helped architect the 2023 title-winning roster, has also been dismissed.
Booth made critical moves over the past two years — including locking in core talent, developing depth, and even making minor deadline tweaks. Still, it seems ownership believes a new direction is needed.
📉 What’s Behind the Decision?
While no official reason has been given, speculation points to:
- Underwhelming follow-up seasons after the 2023 title
- Locker room tension following a turbulent 2024-25 campaign
- Frustration with the team’s inconsistent effort and playoff seeding
Currently sitting at third in the Western Conference, the Nuggets have dealt with injuries to Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., forcing Nikola Jokić to carry a massive load. Despite Jokić recently dropping a historic 61-point triple-double, Denver has looked vulnerable heading into the postseason.
🗣️ What’s Next for Denver?
The timing couldn’t be more awkward. With the playoffs right around the corner, Denver now has:
- No head coach
- No general manager
- And a team led by a fatigued Jokić trying to carry an injury-riddled squad
Assistant coaches are expected to take over in the interim, but don’t be surprised if Denver promotes from within or fast-tracks a candidate like David Adelman or Sam Cassell as a temporary fix.
💬 Final Word: Shock & Uncertainty
Firing your championship-winning coach two years after a ring — and just days before the playoffs — is almost unheard of. This is either the boldest decision the Nuggets have ever made… or one they’ll regret for years.
Stay locked in with BallersCulture for all updates, reactions, and fallout from this bombshell decision.
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✍️ Written by Dimitri | Founder of BallersCulture.com
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