Basketball Hall of Famer Rick Adelman, the longtime NBA coach, didn't push his son, David, into coaching, but he didn't discourage him either.
"A few guys have gotten fired who have been pretty good. You just never know," Rick Adelman said during the 2023 Finals when his son was an assistant for the Denver Nuggets, who won the title that season. "You've got to get lucky. ... But I just thought he had all the knack and the wherewithal to do the job."
Adelman spoke truths in a few concise sentences.
The Nuggets relieved Michael Malone of his duties with three games left in the regular season and appointed David as the interim coach.
David Adelman has showcased the skills and determination required for the job.
He demonstrated this in the final three games of the season, leading the Nuggets to crucial wins to secure home-court advantage in the playoffs and ultimately defeating the Los Angeles Clippers in a Game 7 series-clinching victory.
Is this enough to earn Adelman the permanent coaching position with Denver? The decision lies with Nuggets president Josh Kroenke.
Adelman has proven himself as a head coaching candidate and is on track for a prominent coaching role. The Nuggets would greatly benefit from his leadership.
He stepped into a tumultuous situation, taking over as the Nuggets dismissed GM Calvin Booth alongside Malone's departure.
Adelman navigated this challenging situation with success. Defeating the Clippers was no easy feat, especially considering their strong performance in the latter part of the season.
Despite facing a 2-1 deficit in the series, Adelman guided the Nuggets to victory in overtime, on the road, and in a decisive blowout win.
The upcoming challenge against Oklahoma City will test the Nuggets, who are seen as underdogs. The team's front-office situation also needs resolution, pending the outcome of the season.
Adelman's coaching style is a refreshing change from Malone's, which had worn on the team. The Nuggets are seeking a new direction, and Adelman embodies that change.
Other teams like the Celtics, Spurs, Kings, and Grizzlies have recently promoted interim coaches to full-time positions, highlighting the trend in the NBA.
Adelman is poised for a head coaching role in the NBA, ideally with the Nuggets, where his continuity and fresh perspective could lead to further success.
Follow NBA columnist Jeff Zillgitt on social media @JeffZillgitt