Michael Malone gets contract extension from the Nuggets

Christmas came early for Michael Malone, as the Nuggets gave their head coach a contract extension that will keep him in Denver at least through the 2022-23 season. The news broke on Christmas Eve, when ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski posted a story to Twitter.

ESPN story on the Denver Nuggets extending coach Michael Malone through 2023. https://t.co/cfRFxbwDtX

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) December 24, 2019

The Nuggets have improved every season under Malone, jumping from just 33 wins four years ago to 54 wins and the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference last season. That trajectory was enough to convince the front office that he’s the right man for the job, capable of taking the franchise even greater heights.

“His tireless work ethic and passion are clearly reflected in the continued improvement of our roster,” the team’s president of basketball operations, Tim Connelly, said in a statement. “We are all extremely excited for him to continue to lead our team as we try to build a championship-level organization.”

The Nuggets currently sit at 22-8, having won seven of their last eight games, but reeling from a loss on Christmas night to the lowly Pelicans. Nonetheless, the head coach is excited about being in Denver for the long run.

“None of this would be possible without the hard work, dedication and trust from our players as well as the entire coaching staff,” Malone said in a news release. “I’d also like to thank the amazing fans in Denver who have helped make Pepsi Center one of the toughest places to play in the NBA once again. I look forward to continuing our ultimate goal of winning NBA championships.”

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