Story perspectives

Adelman Ejected in Nuggets' Loss to Rockets

12/22/2025

Summary

Story summary

David Adelman, head coach of the Denver Nuggets, was ejected during a 115-101 loss to the Houston Rockets.
It was his first ejection, after a heated exchange with officials over missed foul calls on Nikola Jokic.
The Nuggets shot 40% overall while missing Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun, and Peyton Watson.
Adelman said his frustration stemmed from prior games.
The Nuggets are 20-7 and will face the Utah Jazz.

History

Historical Context

In 1990, the NBA introduced stricter ejection rules to enhance accountability among coaches and officials, a response to controversies involving figures like Pat Riley. This shift aimed to address growing tensions between coaches and referees, a dynamic highlighted by David Adelman's recent ejection during a game against the Houston Rockets. Such incidents can significantly impact team strategies and performance, especially for the Nuggets, who currently hold a 20-7 record.

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Story summary

David Adelman, head coach of the Denver Nuggets, was ejected during a 115-101 loss to the Houston Rockets.
It was his first ejection, after a heated exchange with officials over missed foul calls on Nikola Jokic.
The Nuggets shot 40% overall while missing Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun, and Peyton Watson.
Adelman said his frustration stemmed from prior games.
The Nuggets are 20-7 and will face the Utah Jazz.

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