SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — In his initial gathering with the team following Mike Malone’s dismissal, Denver Nuggets interim head coach David Adelman stressed the importance of maintaining unity and keeping their focus on securing a playoff spot.
On Wednesday, prior to their matchup with the Kings in Sacramento, Adelman addressed the team and stressed that the Nuggets remain part of the tightly contested playoff competition in the Western Conference.
The past 30 hours have been quite chaotic and very stressful for all involved," stated Adelman, who served as Malone’s lead assistant. "However, the key point is that we must remain united. It was beneficial for everyone to gather in one place and acknowledge that our recent performance has fallen short of expectations. This realization applies not only to the players but also to every individual associated with us.
After leading the Nuggets to their sole NBA title two campaigns ago, Malone was relieved of his duties on Tuesday. This move comes as the team aims to recover from a downturn that saw Denver plummet from being second in the Western Conference down to sharing fourth place with four other teams before their match against the Kings scheduled for Wednesday.
Should the Nuggets triumph in their last three regular-season matches, they might rise as high as the third spot in the Western Conference standings.
We are right in the middle of things here," Adelman stated. "I believe people often overlook this fact. We still possess an excellent opportunity to achieve something remarkable. This has been discussed with the team, and they appear confident, which leads me to anticipate a strong performance tonight.
Besides dismissing Malone, the Nuggets notified general manager Calvin Booth that his contract would not be renewed.
The Nuggets' president and Governor Josh Kroenke also addressed the players, conveying a straightforward message.
"To put it succinctly: Improve," Adelman stated when questioned about Kroenke’s message.
Even with the end-of-season turmoil, Adelson mentioned that the Nuggets haven't got a lot of time to dwell on the newest drama.
It’s just another NBA moment, you have to handle it," Adelman stated. "We’ll strive to make the most of this situation and get things back on track.
“We have to get to a better level to play in that tournament. The West is ridiculous. And if you want to go into that tournament not playing at your best, you’ll be done quick.
Adelman admitted to having conversations with Malone following the termination, yet chose not to elaborate further. He instead used this moment to commend the individual he has collaborated with over eight years.
What he has done for this team makes him the best coach in history; you can't dispute that," Adelson stated. "In terms of win percentages, championships reached, and the knowledge I gained from his guidance, which helped my development as a coach, speaks volumes.
What we're experiencing right now, whether you call it the national narrative or something else, I see it as an incredible journey. He isn’t finished yet. It’s an honor to serve under him and an honor to hold this position and do my absolute best.
___ AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba
