After months of closed-door discussions, the Denver Nuggets ownership group, led by Josh Kroenke, decided to part ways with head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth.
The decision came just three games before Denver started its playoff run, and under interim head coach David Adelman, they took the Finals-favorite Oklahoma City Thunder to seven games before losing in the second round.
While Adelman is the favorite to take over as full-time head coach next season, Malone is also making massive career moves and will be busy.
Michael Malone talks to Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray at Paycom Center.
Michael Malone talks to Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray at Paycom Center.
Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Malone was one of the more firey head coaches in the NBA, and his brutal honesty endeared him to players before things went south. Always ready to offer a quick one-liner to reporters, he will be a fixture of the postseason.
Malone will be joining ESPN's Conference Finals coverage between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Thunder.
Hopefully, he will use his platform to both provide insight into the plays called during the games and offer a behind-the-scenes look at the Nuggets and his firing, as fans still have plenty of questions.
The Eastern Conference Finals between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers will be broadcast on TNT, and the entirety of the Western Conference Finals will be provided by ESPN, giving Malone up to seven chances to provide whatever insights he chooses to offer.
Game 1 will tip off in Oklahoma City on Tuesday at 8:30 PM EST, and the Thunder remain favorites to win the West.
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