Overview

• Interim coach David Adelman earned strong player endorsements after leading the Nuggets to a Game 7 semifinal against the top-seeded Thunder, but his future with the team remains undecided.
• Nikola Jokic praised Adelman for revitalizing team energy during a challenging transition, while Aaron Gordon and Jamal Murray expressed support for making him the permanent head coach.
• Michael Porter Jr. is seen as a potential trade candidate due to his $38.3 million salary and underwhelming playoff performances, though ownership's attachment to him may complicate moves.
• Denver faces significant salary cap limitations, minimal draft assets, and must rely on trades or the $5.7 million taxpayer mid-level exception to strengthen its roster depth.
• Christian Braun emerged as a key young talent during the playoffs, boosting his value as the team considers his future extension and its impact on financial flexibility.