The Denver Nuggets have fired head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth, which was announced by the team on Tuesday. These surprising dismissals come during the final week of the NBA regular season.

Malone led the Nuggets to their first NBA championship in 2023, but the team has struggled this season. There’s been reported tension regarding differing leadership styles between Malone and Booth.

Josh Kroenke, the team owner, stated, “This decision was not made lightly and was evaluated very carefully, and we do it only with the intention of giving our group the best chance at competing for the 2025 NBA Championship.”

With David Adelman stepping in as interim head coach, the Nuggets face a crucial postseason as they strive to maintain their championship-level aspirations.