Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone stirred up debate after criticizing the modern NBA’s approach to conditioning, suggesting that players aren’t coming into the season ready to compete. Following the Nuggets’ preseason loss to the Phoenix Suns, Malone openly expressed his frustration, claiming his players weren’t in top shape and blaming a “softer” league culture. This sparked a heated exchange between former players Richard Jefferson and Kendrick Perkins on NBA on ESPN, as they shared differing views on Malone’s comments.
Richard Jefferson questioned Malone’s expectations, noting that he’s been coaching Denver for nearly a decade, overseeing stars like Nikola Jokić. Jefferson argued that while Malone may have a point about conditioning, he also needs to adapt to the new NBA culture, where players are expected to stay fit year-round. “This is the new NBA. You come in shape,” Jefferson said. He added that the Nuggets’ loss of depth, particularly with Jamal Murray’s recent struggles and the departure of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, only magnifies Malone’s role in ensuring the team is prepared. “There has to be some accountability as a coach,” Jefferson stressed.
Kendrick Perkins, however, backed Malone, claiming that in his experience, preseason was essential for getting into “game shape” through real-time reps, not just offseason training. Perkins defended the coach’s stance, saying, “Guys are not doing conditioning drills no more. Hell, guys are not even playing preseason games no more. So don’t come on here acting like [Malone] said something wrong.” Perkins agreed with Malone’s perspective that today’s NBA doesn’t push players as hard as it once did, attributing the issue to a lack of rigorous preseason preparation.
This debate highlights a broader issue: whether preseason conditioning still holds the same value. Jefferson, believing in offseason commitment, suggested that Malone’s view might be outdated, while Perkins argued for the traditional “game shape” mindset.
With new depth challenges, a young lineup, and question marks around players like Murray, Christian Braun, and Russell Westbrook, Malone faces an uphill task this season. The Nuggets’ opening games will be closely watched to see if Malone’s concerns over conditioning and preparation bear out, or if, as Jefferson argues, accountability will come back to him.
