The Denver Nuggets faced a turning point in the 2025 NBA season, and much of the credit for their resilience belongs to David Adelman. Appointed interim head coach amid sweeping front office changes, Adelman’s strategic acumen and people-first approach gave the Nuggets a fresh sense of purpose and unity. Let’s explore how his vision is making an impact—especially for superstar Nikola Jokic—and what the future might hold for the franchise.

David Adelman’s Fresh Approach to Coaching

Taking over the reins late in the season is no easy feat, yet David Adelman quickly earned the trust of players and staff. He made improving the “overall vibe” a priority, fostering an environment where voices matter and communication reigns. According to The Denver Post, Adelman encouraged all players, especially Jokic, to express themselves openly during film sessions and huddles. This communication-first philosophy has led to a noticeable shift in how the Nuggets collaborate on and off the court.

Empowering Nikola Jokic’s Leadership

One of Adelman’s most significant contributions has been empowering Nikola Jokic to become even more vocal. Previously seen as reserved, Jokic’s increased on-court communication has elevated the entire roster’s performance, particularly during high-stakes games. As highlighted in this in-depth analysis, Jokic’s willingness to direct teammates has been essential in Denver’s series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Adelman recognized Jokic’s strength not just in talent, but in his ability to rally others: “More of it, please,” he remarked. This support has inspired Jokic to call defensive sets and strategize in real time, a leadership evolution his teammates notice and trust.

Tactical Adjustments and On-The-Fly Strategy

Adelman’s tactical savvy is another reason for the Nuggets’ surge. Under his command, Denver has experimented with different zone defenses, forcing opponents like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to adjust. Adelman puts bigs such as Jokic at the heart of defensive communication. “Bigs are always in charge of communication. The zone is a whole other level,” he explained. The Denver Gazette notes how this adaptability has helped keep Denver afloat during challenging runs and playoff adversity.

Team Culture and Accountability

Leadership isn’t just about X’s and O’s. David Adelman prioritizes personal relationships, active feedback, and shared accountability. Nuggets guard Jamal Murray has been outspoken about the team’s need to support Jokic, echoing Adelman’s focus on collective responsibility. As he put it in an interview with HoopsHype: “We all have to be better around him.” Adelman’s open-door policy has set a tone for mutual respect and continuous improvement, a cultural reset that’s visible each game.

Looking Ahead: Is Adelman the Long-Term Answer?

Whether David Adelman secures the full-time head coach position remains to be seen. Regardless, his interim tenure proves what happens when visionary leadership meets opportunity. By uplifting Nikola Jokic, refining team dynamics, and blending tactical rigor with a people-first mindset, Adelman has positioned the Denver Nuggets for success now and in the seasons ahead.

Want to stay updated on the latest Nuggets developments? Dive deeper into the full playoff run with more detailed coverage and analysis.