Denver Nuggets Confirm David Adelman as Head Coach, Aim for Stronger, Healthier 2025-26 Season

David Adelman, newly promoted full-time head coach of the Denver Nuggets, emphasizes the need for improved conditioning and a strong start to the upcoming season to ensure the team's health and competitiveness in the playoffs. He plans to implement a slower, more execution-based style of play to maximize efficiency and preserve player stamina, particularly that of star center Nikola Jokic. Adelman encourages player involvement and new ideas to reinvigorate the team, aiming to build on the momentum from his interim coaching tenure that took the Nuggets to the Western Conference Semifinals. The Nuggets face challenges in roster improvement due to the lack of draft picks and the necessity to maintain the core starting lineup, thus relying on the development of young players and strategic adjustments. Vice chairman Josh Kroenke acknowledges the roster requires upgrades to raise the team's championship ceiling, with a permanent general manager hire pending. Adelman's approach prioritizes winning key games in the playoffs over regular-season pace, reflecting a shift from previous high-tempo strategies to a more measured, efficient style.