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David Adelman’s Future With Denver Nuggets Gets Clarity Amid Growing Questions  
David Adelman (Image Credits: Imagn)

The Denver Nuggets saw their season winding down in one of the most dramatic ways possible for the season.

Though they have been staring at many unanswered questions, one question appears to have an early answer- whether David Adelman is likely to remain at the helm.

Despite a disappointing first-round exit to the Minnesota Timberwolves, internal sentiment within the organization suggests the first-year head coach will return for a second season, according to a report from the Denver Post. 

However, the decision comes after Adelman guided Denver to 54 regular-season wins while navigating injuries that forced 28 different starting lineups.

“Despite chatter that Adelman may already be on the hot seat one year into his tenure, the early sense within the organization is that he’ll return for his second season,” the report read. “He led the Nuggets to 54 regular-season wins with 28 different starting lineups before wiping out in the playoffs.”

The early playoff exit, however, has amplified scrutiny. Denver’s offense, which ranked among the league’s most efficient during the regular season, struggled to translate in the postseason. The team shot just 32.1% on wide-open three-pointers in the series, also well below its league-leading 39.6% regular-season mark.

Franchise cornerstone Nikola Jokic acknowledged the shortcomings, pointing to both execution and rhythm issues. His own production dipped by his standards, while Jamal Murray endured a difficult series marked by inefficient shooting.

Still, both stars publicly supported their coach after the loss, a key factor in the organization’s current stance. Adelman also hinted at deeper roster concerns, particularly around athleticism and shot creation against elite defenses.

Denver Nuggets Roster Decision Under Scrutiny After First Round Exit

The Denver Nuggets’ early playoff exit has put their roster decisions last summer under the microscope.

After falling to the Timberwolves in the first round, attention has shifted to how the front office structured the roster following the 2023 championship run. While Denver opted for continuity, recent developments suggest that approach may now carry some regret.

At the center of the discussion are Christian Braun and Peyton Watson.


Christian Braun (Image Credits: Imagn)

Braun, a key contributor to the title-winning squad, signed a five-year, $125 million extension last offseason. However, Watson’s emergence this season has complicated that decision. 

After Braun suffered an ankle injury, Watson stepped into a larger role and delivered consistent production, averaging 14.6 points per game compared to Braun’s 12.

According to reports, Denver’s front office may now be reassessing that extension, with suggestions they could have prioritized Watson instead. His development has positioned him as a critical piece moving forward, and securing his future is expected to become a priority this offseason.

Beyond that, the Nuggets face broader roster questions. Nikola Jokic remains the franchise cornerstone and is eligible for another extension, placing additional pressure on the organization to build a more reliable supporting cast.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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