Nikola Jokic has seen plenty in his NBA career—but this was different.
Following the Denver Nuggets‘ shocking decision to fire both head coach Michael Malone and GM Calvin Booth just one week before the playoffs, Jokic finally broke his silence. And he didn’t hold back.
“In My Country… You’re Worried You’re Next”
Speaking to reporters, Jokic admitted the sudden move shook the locker room.
“If somebody wants to wake somebody up or change energy, that’s probably what they do,” he said. “In my country, if someone gets fired, you’re worried it’s probably you next.”
The two-time MVP didn’t sugarcoat it. A ten-year partnership with Malone, gone overnight. The same coach who helped guide Denver to its first NBA title in 2023 was out the door—with no discussion.
Jokic Was Informed, Not Included
Jokic revealed that Nuggets owner Josh Kroenke personally told him about the decision to fire Malone and Booth—but only after it had already been made.
“I knew a little bit before everybody and he told me, ‘We made a decision.’ So it was not a discussion—it was a decision,” Jokic said. “He told me why. I listened, and I accept it. But I’m not going to tell you what he told me.”
The message from ownership was clear: this wasn’t about seeking feedback. It was about delivering news—and Jokic, Denver’s franchise star, was just expected to adapt.
“The Vibe Is Different”
Jokic confirmed he texted Malone after the news broke, calling it a “heavy day” for everyone—especially the coach’s family.
But with just days left in the regular season, there’s no time to dwell.
“We have two important games, and the playoffs are right there,” Jokic said. “It needs to be quick—like really quick.”
He added, “The vibe is definitely different. If you want to change something, that’s how you do it. The owner wanted to do it, so… it happens.”
What About Adelman?
David Adelman, now acting as interim head coach, got Jokic’s signature deadpan endorsement:
“He’s gonna keep it really simple. He’ll just say, ‘Do this.’ Probably in some smart-ass way,” Jokic said with a smile. “But maybe that’s the way.”
As the playoffs approach, Denver’s star continues to lead on the court—while adapting to chaos off of it.
