The Denver Nuggets have officially appointed David Adelman as their full-time head coach, confirming his position after a successful interim tenure. This decision marks a significant step in the team’s offseason, enabling Adelman to build upon the foundation he established in his brief stint at the helm. The announcement was confirmed by a team source on Thursday, with ESPN first breaking the news.
Adelman took charge on an interim basis following the departure of head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth late in the season. He led the Nuggets through the last three games of the regular season and two rounds of the playoffs, where the team was ultimately eliminated by the Oklahoma City Thunder in a decisive Game 7.
Throughout his time in charge, Adelman received strong backing from key players, including Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr., who praised his effectiveness in revitalizing a squad facing emotional strain. His strategic adjustments, particularly during the first-round series against the LA Clippers, showcased his tactical acumen, allowing star center Nikola Jokić to adapt when facing difficult defensive setups.
One of the most notable moments of his leadership was his decision to insert Julian Strawther into the lineup during the second round, which proved pivotal as Strawther delivered a crucial 15-point performance in Game 6, helping the team extend the series to a Game 7.
Adelman, son of esteemed NBA coach Rick Adelman, has long been involved in the sport, suggesting a strong basketball pedigree. With this new role, he is positioned to lead a talented roster that includes one of the generation’s premier players in Jokić. Adelman’s promotion signals the Nuggets’ commitment to building a cohesive and competitive team moving forward.
As the Nuggets embark on this new chapter, there is hope that Adelman’s leadership will foster resilience and innovation within the squad, setting the stage for future success.