Tensions are reportedly rising within the Denver Nuggets locker room as head coach Michael Malone faces increasing scrutiny amid claims that several players are beginning to “tune him out.” The allegations come at a critical point in the season, with the team struggling to maintain consistency on the court following key injuries and off-court distractions.
According to sources close to the organization, a growing disconnect has emerged between Malone and several core players, with communication breakdowns and motivational concerns being cited as major issues. While the Nuggets remain in playoff contention, insiders suggest that the team’s recent dip in performance could be partially attributed to waning confidence in Malone’s leadership.
“There’s a sense that some of the players just aren’t responding to him the way they used to,” one source revealed. “The message is getting stale, and it’s starting to show in how the team plays — especially late in games.”
This internal unrest comes on the heels of the indefinite suspension of key players Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr., which has already placed immense pressure on the team’s rotation and morale. Malone, who led the Nuggets to an NBA championship in 2023, is now facing his toughest challenge since taking over the franchise in 2015.
Despite the rumors, team officials have not issued an official comment, and Malone appeared calm during Tuesday’s media session, stating only, “We’re going through adversity, but that’s part of the journey. I still believe in this group.”
Whether Malone can rally his squad and restore the chemistry that once made the Nuggets one of the league’s most formidable teams remains to be seen.
