As the Denver Nuggets’ season ends in frustration and finger-pointing, a surprising name has emerged in the blame game: assistant coach David Adelman. Once viewed as a rising star in the coaching ranks and a potential successor to Michael Malone, Adelman is now being accused by insiders and fans alike of creating more problems than solutions — with one word at the center of the controversy: ego.*
Sources close to the team suggest that tension has been brewing behind the scenes for months, with whispers that Adelman’s growing ambition and assertiveness have created friction not only with Malone, but with other members of the coaching staff and even players.
“Adelman sees himself as the next big thing,” said one anonymous team insider. “And while confidence is good, there’s a fine line between ambition and undermining the system. Lately, he’s been crossing it.”
Reports indicate that Adelman has pushed aggressively for more influence over game strategy, rotations, and even player development — moves that some view as stepping on Malone’s toes. While it’s not uncommon for top assistants to position themselves for head coaching jobs, the internal dynamic in Denver appears to be turning toxic.
“There’s a power struggle happening in that locker room,” said former NBA player and current analyst Jalen Rose. “And when you have an assistant trying to outshine the head coach, it’s a recipe for disaster — especially on a team trying to chase titles.”
Players have remained tight-lipped publicly, but subtle signs have emerged. Jamal Murray has reportedly voiced frustration over unclear offensive roles, while insiders suggest Nikola Jokić has grown “disengaged” with the shift in tone coming from the coaching staff.
Whether Malone has lost control of his bench, or Adelman has simply outgrown his role, one thing is clear: the chemistry that once fueled Denver’s championship run in 2023 is fading fast.
Fan sentiment is shifting, too. Social media has lit up in recent weeks with posts pointing to Adelman’s increased media presence and body language on the sidelines as signs of someone “already acting like the head coach.”
With Michael Malone under fire after a disappointing postseason exit, some fear the Nuggets could implode from within — not because of talent, but because of egos battling for control behind the scenes.
As the front office begins its offseason evaluation, they may be forced to make a tough decision: back the head coach, or bet on the rising star with a growing shadow. Either way, something has to give — because right now, the real opponent in Denver might not be another team, but the one sitting just down the bench.
