Denver Nuggets owner Josh Kroenke addressed the media in a detailed end-of-season press conference, covering the team’s playoff exit, future plans, and coaching changes. Kroenke expressed pride in how the team rallied despite difficult circumstances and confirmed the promotion of interim coach David Adelman to the permanent head coach role.
Kroenke praised the Oklahoma City Thunder for their strong performance in the playoff series, calling them “a force to be reckoned with both now and in the future.” He acknowledged the challenges the Nuggets faced but noted, “I thought we squeezed a little more out of the season than the direction that we were headed six weeks ago.”
The owner emphasized that anything short of a championship is “not acceptable” for the franchise, adding that the organization will carefully evaluate its roster and front office structure. Kroenke said, “Some of the issues we’re facing need to be examined very, very carefully, thought through very, very extensively,” but also cautioned against overthinking decisions.
On the coaching front, Kroenke highlighted the positive response from players to Adelman’s leadership style. “The way the group rallied around him, not only a different voice but a different style of communication, was fantastic to see,” he said. The owner expressed confidence that with a full offseason and training camp, Adelman will be well-prepared for the upcoming season.
Regarding roster construction, Kroenke confirmed the team’s commitment to improving depth despite contractual limitations and a lack of draft picks this year. “There’s an urgency to improve the team and the organization everywhere, whether that’s via trade, draft,” he said, stressing that player development and smart acquisitions will be key.
Kroenke reflected on how close the Nuggets are to championship contention. “We’re close, but I don’t want to be naive in thinking how close we are, but I don’t want to underestimate how close we were either,” he explained. He noted the fine margins in the playoff series and referenced key moments that could have shifted the outcome.
The owner also addressed his own role in the organization’s direction, admitting, “I needed to be much more hands-on in periods of transition.” He plans to be actively involved in shaping the team’s vision over the short and long term, while trusting the staff to carry out their duties.
On the team’s playing style, Kroenke described Adelman’s approach as “a subtle shift” focused on creating space and moving the ball. He emphasized that the new style complements the current roster and differs from the previous tempo under Michael Malone.
Kroenke concluded by thanking fans for their support and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to winning. “We know expectations are high, and we share those expectations,” he said. “We’re committed to making the necessary changes to get back to the top.”
