David Adelman Discusses Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, and NBA’s Tough Western Conference
David Adelman, the new head coach of the Denver Nuggets, recently opened up about the challenges ahead for his team. The Nuggets are preparing for a competitive season in the tough Western Conference, facing high expectations after their recent championship win.
Adelman on Coaching the Nuggets
Adelman, the son of Hall of Fame coach Rick Adelman, has been with the Nuggets organization since 2017. Last season, he was promoted amid significant changes within the team. The Nuggets’ previous coach, Michael Malone, had led them to strong offensive rankings during his tenure, often placing in the top five in the league.
Key Offseason Changes
- David Adelman’s promotion to head coach.
- Jonas Valančiūnas added to the roster as a significant offseason acquisition.
- Other new team staff, including Jared Dudley and Mike Moser, focusing on defense.
Importance of Adaptation
As the Nuggets prepare for their upcoming season, Adelman emphasizes the need for adaptation. The team has faced different defensive strategies from opponents, especially regarding their star, Nikola Jokić. Teams have increasingly focused on altering their defensive approaches against him.
Adelman stated, “We have to tweak things. Defensively, we have to try things we haven’t done in the past.” He acknowledged the necessity of evolving while retaining the winning strategies that have served the team well.
The Role of Leadership
Adelman highlighted the importance of team leadership, particularly from veterans like Jamal Murray. After a challenging previous season, he believes Murray is now in a better position to perform. The presence of consistent, experienced players is crucial as they navigate the complexities of the NBA.
The excitement around the new roster reflects a balanced mix of youth and experience, aimed at maintaining competitiveness in the challenging Western Conference. Adelman remains optimistic about the team’s potential while acknowledging the stakes involved.
Expectations for the Upcoming Season
The Nuggets are poised for a promising season ahead, with their sights set on improving their performance in critical playoff situations. Following their previous season’s challenges, including two heartbreaking Game 7 losses, the team looks to leverage past experiences as they aim for further success.
In terms of competition, Adelman noted, “We’re a problem…but so are they,” referring to the formidable teams within the Western Conference. His focus remains on fostering a resilient team culture that can adapt and thrive under pressure.
