Nuggets vice chairman Josh Kroenke apologized for the firing of head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth, stating that neither deserved to be let go. Kroenke addressed the controversial decisions in a news conference just before the team's playoff series against the Los Angeles Clippers, acknowledging the respect he and the organization had for Malone and Booth.
Despite Malone's successful tenure with the Nuggets and the team's trajectory towards the playoffs, internal tensions and concerns about the team's direction led to their dismissals. Kroenke revealed that he had been contemplating the decision since November and nearly acted during the season but ultimately made the move amid a losing streak as Denver faced tough competition in the Western Conference. The Nuggets regrouped after the changes, winning their last three games and preparing for their playoff matchup with the Clippers.