In a move that officially closes one of the most successful chapters in franchise history, Denver Nuggets General Manager Calvin Booth confirmed the departure of longtime head coach Michael Malone, calling it “the toughest decision we’ve made — but one we took together.”
Speaking at a packed press conference Friday morning, Booth revealed that the organization and Malone mutually agreed to part ways after a series of internal discussions. The decision follows a turbulent season marked by injuries, off-court controversy, and underwhelming playoff performances — far removed from the championship highs of just two years ago.
“We took a decision as a team,” Booth said. “Michael has been more than a coach — he’s been a pillar of this franchise. But after evaluating where we are and where we want to go, we agreed it was time for a change.”
Malone, who led the Nuggets to their first-ever NBA Championship in 2023 and consistently kept the team among the league’s elite, leaves behind a legacy of grit, development, and culture-building in Denver. He ends his tenure with a 423–312 regular-season record and multiple deep playoff runs.
In a statement released shortly after the press conference, Malone expressed gratitude to the fans, players, and organization: “Coaching in Denver has been the honor of my life. I leave with no regrets — only pride in what we built together.”
The search for a new head coach is already underway, with assistant coach Marcus David currently serving as interim. League sources say the Nuggets will prioritize a candidate who can “build on Malone’s foundation while bringing fresh energy and adaptability.”
As the Malone era ends, a new chapter begins — but the shadow of his legacy will loom large in Denver for years to come.
