Malone loves Westbrook and is excited for what he has already brought to the Nuggets. This article was originally published on www.si.com/nba/nuggets as NBA Fans React to Michael Malone's Russell Westbrook Statement. Russell Westbrook is ready to begin his first season with the Denver Nuggets.

Original article source: Nuggets' Michael Malone rips 'soft' NBA as he questions team's conditioning in preseason Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone looks on in the second half of an NBA preseason game against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024 in Denver. AP Newsroom© AP Photo/David Zalubowski

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.

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.

Jefferson, believing in offseason commitment, suggested that Malone’s view might be outdated, while Perkins argued for the traditional “game shape” mindset.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.