The Denver Nuggets have officially severed ties with head coach Michael Malone, sending shockwaves throughout the NBA universe.

The news broke Tuesday, just weeks into the playoffs, leaving fans and analysts utterly blindsided. While having led the team to a strong season and staying in contention for a top three seed in the Western Conference, Malone is gone—and he's not alone.

Michael Malone Fired: Nuggets Rattle Leadership During Playoff Surge

Denver Nuggets Fire Head Coach Michael Malone, GM Calvin Booth Denver Nuggets Fire Head Coach Michael Malone, GM Calvin Booth
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Michael Malone's firing is controversial throughout the league, particularly considering his recent successes. The Nuggets employed Malone in 2015 and not only brought him to the 2023 NBA Championship — the team's first-ever — but also made him the franchise's winningest coach, according to TMZ Sports.

He finished with an impressive 471-327 mark in the regular season and 44-36 in the postseason.

But Denver's recent play has fallen off, with the team going 3-7 in their past 10 games and currently on a four-game losing streak. That slide might have had something to do with the decision, but it's still unexpected given the team's overall success under Malone's direction.

General Manager Calvin Booth Also Shown the Door

In a signal that indicates a total front-office overhaul, the Denver Nuggets also parted ways with general manager Calvin Booth. Booth, along with Malone, was a key figure in assembling the championship-caliber roster that is in place today. The timing is particularly unusual, as Denver is set for another playoff run.

This simultaneous departure suggests deeper internal problems or a philosophical shift by Nuggets ownership, who might be seeking to turn the page despite the team's recent championship and ongoing competitiveness.

Michael Malone's Legacy in Denver

Michael Malone is a legacy of change. When he arrived a decade ago, the Nuggets were rebuilding. During the ensuing eight years, he made them a consistent playoff team and, finally, NBA champions. His legacy is also etched literally, in a Nuggets-themed tattoo he received following the 2023 championship run.

Nevertheless, the basketball business doesn't wait for anyone. The choice to part ways with Malone is an indication of the bottom-line mentality of the NBA, in which even championship coaches are not above reproach.

What Could Be the Reason Why Malone and Booth Were Fired?

According to Bleacher Report, there could be a beef between Malone and Booth. It's also possible that the Nuggets organization thinks that Denver isn't good enough for its playoff preparation.

Aside from that, the report also says that Booth's multiple misses could be one of the reasons behind the firing.