NBA: Ranking all 30 head coaches ahead of the 2017-18 season

MEMPHIS, TN - APRIL 27: Head coach David Fizdale of the Memphis Grizzlies speaks to the media prior to Game Six the Western Conference Quarterfinals game against the San Antonio Spurs during the 2017 NBA Playoffs at FedExForum on April 27, 2017 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images) /

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DENVER, CO – DECEMBER 15: Head coach Michael Malone of the Denver Nuggets reacts on the sidelines as his team plays the Portland Trail Blazers at the Pepsi Center on December 15, 2016 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that , by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /

16. Mike Malone, Denver Nuggets

Mike Malone is one of the most intriguing, up and coming coaches in our NBA today. Winning 40 games last season, Malone barely missed out on the playoffs, partly because half of the season he was experimenting with different rotations.

Malone finally found gold with Jokic in the starting lineup, which meant the Nuggets were able to trade Nurkic away and make the Joker the centerpiece of the franchise. The trade deadline last year was the mark in which Mike will start his rise as one of the premier coaches in this league.

Combine this with the addition of a four-time all-star in Paul Millsap and 40 wins seems like the floor in 2018.

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