The Denver Nuggets are facing a potential upheaval as head coach Michael Malone’s position is at risk following a series of controversies. The most significant incident involved star player Jamal Murray, who threw a heat pack onto the court during a playoff game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This act was deemed “inexcusable” and “dangerous” by Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch, and resulted in a $100,000 fine for Murray【9†source】【10†source】.
Additionally, Malone has been a focal point of criticism from various media personalities. Notably, Richard Sherman, during an appearance on FS1’s “Undisputed,” dismissed Malone’s accomplishments and suggested that he would be forgotten in the history books, overshadowed by more prominent figures like LeBron James【10†source】.
These incidents have led to speculation about Malone’s future with the team, despite his past success and contributions to the Nuggets’ historic championship win. The team’s management is reportedly concerned about the negative attention and internal discord, which could jeopardize Malone’s tenure if not addressed promptly【9†source】【10†source】.
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As the 2024 NBA Free Agency draws near, teams all around the league will be trying to strengthen their rosters. The Dallas Mavericks are one of the teams hoping to get better after losing in the NBA Finals.
Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are two excellent players on the Mavs roster, but the team still needs a player to give them another shot at the Finals the next year.
The Denver Nuggets’ star wing player and the Mavericks are reportedly interested in working together this summer, according to NBA Insider Marc Stein of “The Stein Line.”
Mavericks express interest in moving Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in the other direction
share a desire to reach an agreement. But for the deal to go through, Caldwell-Pope to the Mavs probably needed a sign-and-trade. Tobias Harris would also need to execute a sign-and-trade agreement in order to join the Mavs this summer.
The Mavs would have a reliable two-way player with good veteran experience if they were to add Caldwell-Pope. The former 2013 NBA Draft eighth overall selection has played on two championship teams, the most recent of which was the Denver Nuggets in 2023.
Caldwell-Pope was a vital member of the Nuggets team during his final two seasons in the Mile High City. In his two seasons in Denver, Caldwell-Pope shot over 40 percent from three while also playing excellent defense.
When playing the Celtics in the Finals, the Mavericks needed 3-point shooting more than anything else. The Mavs will get access to Caldwell-Pope’s 3-point shooting.
Additionally, the Mavs would have a reliable starting small forward and shooting guard in the starting lineup. All 152 of Caldwell-Pope’s games in Denver were starts.
With his play on both ends, Caldwell-Pope would be a significant improvement over Tim Hardaway Jr. now that he’s gone. The Mavs would be able to count on Caldwell-Pope to both play strong defense and make 3-pointers, as Hardaway Jr. proved to be a problem in the 2024 Playoffs due to his poor shooting performance.
Including a two-time NBA champion with the capacity to perform on both ends at The Mavs should consider making a high-level addition like Caldwell-Pope during this free agency period. The Mavs are running out of time to start strengthening their squad in order to return to the Finals.
Tags: Caldwell-Pope, Denver Nuggets, Hardaway Jr., Jamal Murray, LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Mavericks