Charles Barkley Acknowledges Nikola Jokic's Efforts in Stepping Up as a Leader to Inspire Denver Nuggets Following the Dismissal of Coach Michael Malone

The Denver Nuggets endured a tumultuous conclusion to the regular season as head coach Michael Malone was sacked when three games were left to be played. David Adleman has been hired as an interim coach but based on the scenes that have emanated at every timeout, one can safely assert that it is the 3-time MVP Nikola Jokic, who is at the helm currently.

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Charles Barkley Acknowledges Nikola Jokic For Calling the Shots as a Coach

What's evident hasn't remained hidden from the fans, and Nikola Jokic is receiving props for stepping up in the absence of a full-time coach. Aside from the fans, Jokic's leadership has been discussed by Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O'Neal during the recent episode of Inside the NBA.

While Kenny and Shaq credited Adelman for steadying the ship, Barkley on the other hand gave Jokic the recognition for spreading the belief in the team that it could still target a title win.

According to Kenny, it could have been the end of the road for Denver following the dismissal of coach Malone, but Adelman settled in well to present an immediate impact, giving fans the belief that they are still in the competition and can claim the title in the end.

“Also, the players, shoutout to them too, for not tanking the season, saying, ‘OK, we’ll get them next year’,” he said.

Shaq seconded Kenny's claim and highlighted that Adelman had experience in the context because he has acted as Malone's assistant coach in the past. Chuck had a different opinion. According to Barkley, it is Joker who is pushing the Nuggets towards the championship contention, while describing his animated presence on the sidelines.

“Joker’s coaching right now. He has taken control of that team. You’ve seen him be more animated and emotional, and it’s all been in the last month!” Chuck said. “We’ve been covering this team for years, and he don’t ever show emotion! But in the last month, he’s been doing that.”

While whoever may be calling the shots, the Nuggets are in front of a huge obstacle in the form of the Oklahoma City Thunder. The challenge has intensified as they have lost game 1 of the playoff draw.