Less than a week ago, the Denver Nuggets were in crisis mode. Fresh off the heels of a disastrous four-game losing streak in a packed Western Conference, the desperate Nuggets were in serious danger of falling to the play-in tournament.

Michael Malone, the Denver Nuggets secured the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference entering the postseason. The vibes surrounding the organization are likely positive, but an early playoff exit could change the franchise's direction.

Nikola Jokić typically manages to keep a level head on the court, but the Denver Nuggets star was reportedly "frustrated" with his team's defense this season leading up to Michael Malone's firing.