The level of disagreement is judged as “ unusual “. The qualifier is used by ESPN reporter Zach Lowe to describe the atmosphere within the Nuggets. With a Mike Malone annoyed by the choices of his leaders.
These internal tensions would stem from an offseason that saw the Nuggets lose Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, after the loss of Bruce Brown during the previous offseason. Two important players of the 2023 title, left to offer themselves better contracts, the first with the Pacers, the second with the Magic.
” It would be nice if he came back, for our continuity. But if we look at our roster, Christian Braun has one of the best 'Net Ratings' in the league. If Kentavious Caldwell-Pope doesn't come back, with Braun in the starting five, we can get by. “, GM Calvin Booth posted before the veteran's departure.
Developing youth while remaining competitive
However, Mike Malone, for his part focused on the present and the quest for a new title for Nikola Jokic's team, would like to rely more on experienced players, rather than developing youngsters. This difference in approach between the two men had already surfaced last season.
Despite the loss of “KCP”, the Nuggets coach's wishes were partially granted with the arrivals of Dario Saric and Russell Westbrook, as reinforcements behind Jamal Murray. Enough to get the Nuggets machine going again?
After the elimination against the Wolves in the second round of the playoffs, the technician admitted that his best players were ” mentally and physically drained “It's up to the coach to find ways to relieve his veteran starters by using and giving more responsibility to the youngsters Zeke Nnaji, Julian Strawther, Peyton Watson and company. Even if the balance is always delicate to find for a team aiming for the top spots in the conference.
