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Denver Nuggets made perfect trade but have one weakness says ex-NBA star, ‘going to walk all over him’

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Luca Rosano | Last updated Sep 15, 2025 7:30 PM ET

The Denver Nuggets almost took down the eventual NBA Champion Oklahoma City Thunder during the 2025 NBA Playoffs.

Nikola Jokic was a man on a mission, single-handedly carrying the Nuggets to a Game 7 matchup.

However, the lack of help from his supporting cast proved to be too much as the Thunder blew the Nuggets out at the Paycom Center.

Entering the offseason, the Nuggets knew they needed a change. Denver couldn’t run back the same roster and expect better results.

So, they pulled off a blockbuster deal which sent Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets for Cam Johnson.

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Olden Polynice doubts David Adelman as Denver Nuggets head coach

The Nuggets received a lot of high praise when they dealt Porter Jr. for Johnson, as they’re getting a player who can play both ends of the floor.

Former NBA player Olden Polynice called the trade “perfect” for Denver, but he shared why he still has doubts about the Nuggets on Byron Scott’s Fast Break podcast.

“I like Denver reloaded. That trade was perfect for them with Cam Johnson now instead of Michael Porter.

“Michael Porter can go East and do his thing. Get the ball more. I like Denver coming back.

“I don’t know about Adelman as a coach, they are going to walk all over him.”

Denver Nuggets head coach David Adelman deserves a fair shot

It’s quick to dismiss Adelman due to his inexperience as a head coach, but the 44-year-old earned this opportunity.

Adelman replaced Michael Malone just before the playoffs and led the Nuggets to wins in their last three regular-season games to avoid the NBA’s play-in tournament.

He then led the Nuggets past the Los Angeles Clippers in seven games, before taking the Western Conference’s top seed to the brink of elimination.

The Nuggets officially promoted Adelman to head coach, removing his interim tag in May.

Adelman served as Michael Malone’s top assistant for eight seasons and he was viewed as an up-and-coming coach.

The Nuggets needed a fresh start and Adelman could be the guy to help get the Nuggets back to the top of the mountain.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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