The Denver Nuggets shocked the NBA when they fired head coach Michael Malone shortly before the start of the playoffs, but there was reportedly some internal frustration from the players regarding his style that may have contributed to the move.

Despite being the winningest coach in franchise history and guiding the team to the 2023 championship, Michael Malone was fired by the Denver Nuggets. It was a stunning move considering the Nuggets had only three games left in the regular season when Malone and general manager Calvin Booth were fired.

Firing the head coach and general manager with just three games left in the regular season might seem like an impulsive move but Denver Nuggets coach Josh Kroenke said Tuesday the split was months in the making.