David Adelman’s Case for the Denver Nuggets Head Coaching Job
The narrative surrounding the Denver Nuggets coaching situation has taken a dramatic turn, with assistant coach David Adelman thrust into the spotlight. Amidst a whirlwind of organizational changes and playoff pressures, Adelman has not only steadied the ship but steered it towards a potential championship trajectory. While his father, the legendary Rick Adelman, never explicitly pushed him towards coaching, the younger Adelman possesses the "knack and wherewithal" to excel, as his father aptly put it. Now, the question looms: Has he done enough to earn the full-time head coaching position in Denver?
The circumstances surrounding Adelman’s interim appointment were nothing short of chaotic. The Nuggets, in a surprising move, relieved head coach Michael Malone of his duties with only three regular-season games remaining. Simultaneously, General Manager Calvin Booth was also dismissed, leaving a leadership void that demanded immediate attention. In stepped Adelman, tasked with not only maintaining the team’s playoff positioning but also navigating a turbulent organizational landscape.
His initial assignment was clear: secure home-court advantage for the first round of the playoffs. Adelman delivered, guiding the Nuggets to three consecutive victories. This accomplishment alone showcased his ability to quickly adapt, implement strategies, and motivate players under immense pressure. However, the true test of his coaching mettle came in the first-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Clippers, led by seasoned coach Ty Lue and boasting a formidable roster, were a dangerous opponent. They had surged in the final stretch of the regular season, establishing themselves as one of the league’s elite teams alongside the Oklahoma City Thunder and Boston Celtics. After falling behind 2-1 in the series, the Nuggets faced a daunting challenge. Yet, Adelman’s leadership proved decisive. He orchestrated a thrilling two-point overtime victory, followed by a crucial two-point road win. Finally, in the series-clinching Game 7, Adelman’s Nuggets delivered a resounding 120-101 blowout victory, sending a clear message to the rest of the league.
This remarkable turnaround highlighted several key attributes of Adelman’s coaching style. Firstly, his ability to make in-game adjustments was evident. He demonstrated a keen understanding of the Clippers’ strengths and weaknesses, effectively countering their strategies and exploiting their vulnerabilities. Secondly, Adelman fostered a culture of resilience and determination within the team. Despite facing adversity, the Nuggets remained composed and focused, executing their game plan with precision. Thirdly, Adelman established strong communication and rapport with his players. He instilled confidence in their abilities, empowering them to perform at their best.
The upcoming second-round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder presents another significant challenge. The Thunder, a young and talented team, are considered the favorites in the matchup. However, Adelman has already proven his ability to lead the Nuggets against formidable opponents. Regardless of the outcome of the series, his performance thus far has undoubtedly solidified his case for the full-time head coaching job.
The decision ultimately rests with Nuggets president Josh Kroenke, who also serves as the vice chairman of Kroenke Sports and Entertainment. Kroenke faces a complex decision, balancing the need for continuity with the potential benefits of a fresh perspective. While the Nuggets are in the process of resolving their front-office situation, Kroenke is likely waiting to assess the team’s overall playoff performance before making any major decisions.
One crucial factor working in Adelman’s favor is the changing dynamic within the Nuggets organization. According to reports, Malone’s coaching style had begun to wear on the team, creating a need for a change. Adelman’s demeanor is reportedly the polar opposite of Malone’s, suggesting a more collaborative and player-friendly approach. This contrast could be precisely what the Nuggets need to revitalize their team culture and unlock their full potential.
The trend of promoting interim coaches to full-time positions has gained momentum in recent years. The Boston Celtics removed the interim tag from Joe Mazzulla in 2023, and he subsequently led the team to a championship. Similarly, the San Antonio Spurs, Sacramento Kings, and Memphis Grizzlies have all entrusted their head coaching roles to interim coaches. These examples demonstrate a growing recognition of the value of internal candidates who have already established relationships with players and understand the team’s dynamics.
David Adelman’s situation mirrors these success stories. He has seamlessly integrated into the Nuggets organization, earning the respect of players and demonstrating his coaching acumen. While the remaining playoff games will undoubtedly influence Kroenke’s decision, Adelman has already made a compelling case for his candidacy. His leadership during a period of turmoil, his tactical prowess, and his ability to connect with players all point towards a bright future as an NBA head coach.
Whether that future lies with the Denver Nuggets remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: David Adelman has proven that he possesses the "knack and wherewithal" to excel in the coaching ranks, and he is on the cusp of securing a well-deserved opportunity to lead an NBA team. The Nuggets would be wise to consider the benefits of continuity coupled with a fresh voice that has already resonated with the players. Giving Adelman the full-time job would not only reward his hard work and dedication but also potentially usher in a new era of success for the Denver Nuggets.
