Image Source: X
[Saba Sports News] Michael Malone is headed to TV now that there’s no conflict of interest standing in the way.
According to DNVR Sports, the former Denver Nuggets head coach is joining ESPN to contribute to the network’s coverage of the Western Conference Finals between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The timing lines up, as Malone’s former team was just knocked out of the playoffs in a Game 7 loss to Oklahoma City. With the Nuggets no longer involved, there’s no concern about Malone offering biased analysis during the series.
Malone, 53, spent a decade as Denver’s head coach, compiling 471 wins, six playoff appearances, three division titles, and leading the franchise to its first-ever NBA championship in 2023.
Despite his success, the Nuggets made the surprising decision to part ways with Malone late in the regular season. Reports pointed to ongoing tension between Malone and GM Calvin Booth — who was also dismissed — as well as questionable roster decisions.
Assistant coach David Adelman stepped in as interim head coach, guiding the team past the Clippers in Round 1 before falling in a tight series to the top-seeded Thunder.
Now, Malone returns to the spotlight in a new role as an ESPN analyst, following his abrupt exit from Denver.