By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Denver Nuggets continue to seek ways to maximize the roster surrounding Serbian superstar Nikola Jokic, prioritizing international acumen. According to a Monday report from HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, they have finalized an agreement to name former forward Austin Dufault as their new assistant coach and vice president of player development.
The strategic hire marks a prominent Colorado homecoming for 36-year-old Dufault, who spent his collegiate career starring locally for the Colorado Buffaloes between 2008 and 2012. Before securing his new role in Denver, he fast-tracked his coaching credentials through vital player development positions across the NBA. He most recently served as the director of player development for the Chicago Bulls. He previously built his foundational coaching reputation on the bench of the Detroit Pistons, where he served as an assistant coach focused heavily on maximizing the raw potential of the franchise’s young core.
Dufault’s transition into high-level coaching is heavily informed by his extensive background as a professional player overseas. After going undrafted, the 6-foot-9 forward forged a resilient, multi-year journeyman career heavily focused on competitive European leagues. His international playing days included foundational stints developing his game in France and finding scoring rhythm around other countries on the Old Continent, including a FIBA Europe Cup stint with Sopron in 2016, before later rounding out his global journey in Japan.
This diverse European tenure allowed him to master different tactical systems and playing philosophies. Front offices value this specific international perspective in modern player development. The Nuggets are leaning on this exact synthesis and proven NBA coaching strategy to help guide their roster under head coach David Adelman.
Read the latest News
Read the full article here
