The Denver Nuggets are on a mission to build a championship-winning team around their superstar, Nikola Jokić, amidst a cultural reset. But it's not just about winning; it's about creating a harmonious environment that caters to Jokić's unique needs and keeps him happy.
A Bold Move to End the Cold War:
The story begins with a dramatic decision by team president Josh Kroenke, who ended a 'cold war' within the organization by firing the general manager and longtime coach with just three games left in the regular season. This move, while shocking, set the stage for a new era.
The Superstar Burden:
Enter Ben Tenzer and Jon Wallace, two executives tasked with supporting Jokić's immense talent. They understand the pressure but see it as a privilege. Wallace, a former point guard, emphasizes the importance of being on the same wavelength as Jokić, who is unselfish and open about his needs. This connection is crucial for the team's success.
A Special Opportunity:
Tenzer, a respected salary-cap specialist and former G League GM, views their role as an exciting opportunity rather than pressure. The goal is to create a positive environment around Jokić, whose individual greatness invites criticism of those around him.
The Urgent Need to Win:
With Jokić turning 30 and his contract allowing an out in 2027, the urgency to win is palpable. The Nuggets' recent success has kept their title-contending window open, but the culture reset goes beyond just winning. It's about addressing the dysfunction and lack of depth that plagued the team in recent years.
A Course Correction:
The appointment of David Adelman as head coach and the addition of Tenzer and Wallace in the front office marked a significant course correction. This reshaped front office, with its unique structure, aims to collaborate and utilize institutional knowledge effectively.
A Stellar Offseason:
The Nuggets had an impressive offseason, trading Michael Porter Jr. for Cam Johnson, re-signing veteran Bruce Brown, adding Tim Hardaway Jr. for scoring, and securing Jonas Valančiūnas as a reliable backup for Jokić. These moves addressed the previous issues of relying too heavily on young players and the need for veteran experience.
A Happy Superstar:
Wallace emphasizes the importance of surrounding Jokić with like-minded individuals who share his vision. The goal is to bring back the joy of playing basketball for Jokić, as seen in his and his teammates' eyes. The Nuggets' strategy involves consulting Jokić on personnel moves, ensuring his comfort and confidence.
A Delicate Balance:
The Nuggets have a delicate balance to maintain, as Jokić's mood can be influenced by the environment. They've gone to great lengths to surround him with familiar faces and trusted staffers. This approach is common in the NBA, with franchises making moves to keep their superstars content.
A Familiar Face Returns:
The Nuggets' offseason moves included bringing back familiar faces like Tenzer, who has a childhood connection to the sports business world. His promotion was due to his ability to bring calm and collaboration to a sensitive situation. Adelman, the head coach, has a strong rapport with Jokić, amplifying the superstar's leadership.
A Positive History:
The Nuggets sought out individuals with a positive history with the program, like Wallace, who was lured away from Georgetown by Tim Connelly. The franchise even pursued Connelly's brother, Joe, for a front office role, showcasing their commitment to familiar faces.
A Partnership for the Future:
The overall goal is to create a fulfilling experience for everyone involved, especially Jokić. The Nuggets aim to have everyone pulling in the same direction, ensuring satisfaction for Jokić and the team. This strategy involves luck and determination, focusing on players who can make a major impact and re-engage their joy for the game.
Controversy and Comment:
But here's where it gets controversial: Is it fair to build a team solely around one player's preferences, or should the organization's vision take precedence? Are the Nuggets' moves a recipe for long-term success or a short-term fix? What's your take on the delicate balance between catering to a superstar and maintaining a healthy team culture? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
