Report: Jared Dudley to Join Denver Nuggets as Top Assistant Coach…
The Denver Nuggets are expected to hire former NBA forward and current assistant coach Jared Dudley as their new top assistant coach, multiple sources have confirmed. The move marks a significant addition to Denver’s coaching staff as the team prepares for a pivotal 2025–26 NBA season.
Dudley, 39, spent the past four seasons on the Dallas Mavericks’ coaching bench under head coach Jason Kidd after retiring as a player in 2021. His transition to Denver will reunite him with a Western Conference rival, but more importantly, place him in a leadership role under newly-promoted Nuggets head coach David Adelman.
A Rapid Rise in Coaching Circles
Dudley has quickly earned a reputation around the league as a rising star in the coaching ranks. Known for his basketball IQ, veteran leadership, and strong communication skills, he was often praised in Dallas for connecting with players and helping develop young talent.
During his 14-year playing career, Dudley suited up for seven NBA teams, including the Phoenix Suns, Milwaukee Bucks, Washington Wizards, and Los Angeles Lakers. He won an NBA title with the Lakers during the pandemic-shortened 2019–20 season.
His time in Dallas saw him take on an increasingly important role on the bench, culminating in a run to the NBA Finals in 2024, where the Mavericks lost to the Boston Celtics.
Strategic Timing for Denver
Dudley’s hiring comes at a critical time for the Nuggets, who are reshaping both their roster and coaching staff following a second-round playoff exit this past season. Head coach Michael Malone stepped down in June, and assistant David Adelman was promoted to the lead role shortly after. Bringing in Dudley as the top assistant helps stabilize the coaching hierarchy while injecting new energy and perspective.
“Jared Dudley brings championship experience, recent playing insight, and deep knowledge of team dynamics — he’s a perfect fit for what we’re building in Denver,” one team insider said anonymously.
Dudley Reacts to the Move
Taking to social media shortly after news broke, Dudley expressed his gratitude and excitement:
“Thank you Coach Kidd and Nico for allowing me to start my coaching career in Dallas. I’ll always be grateful. Excited for the next chapter in Denver with Coach Adelman and the Nuggets!”
The message underscores Dudley’s amicable departure from Dallas and his enthusiasm for taking on a more senior role with a team widely considered a title contender.
What It Means for the Nuggets
With the recent addition of players like Cam Johnson, Bruce Brown, and Tim Hardaway Jr., and the looming decision on big man Jonas Valančiūnas, Denver is reshuffling its core to surround reigning MVP Nikola Jokić with stronger support. Dudley’s arrival signals a clear intent to strengthen the leadership structure off the court as well.
NBA analysts believe Dudley’s presence could play a pivotal role in enhancing the team’s culture, bench rotations, and locker room communication.
Bottom Line:
Jared Dudley’s transition to Denver as top assistant coach is more than a coaching shuffle — it’s a strategic step in the Nuggets’ quest to return to the NBA Finals. With his championship pedigree and emerging coaching acumen, Dudley may be just what the Nuggets need to climb back to the top.
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