Given the situations he has been put in, the Denver Nuggets‘ Michael Malone has done a stellar job as an NBA head coach.

Before receiving his untimely termination from the Sacramento Kings, Malone was the one coach who broke through to DeMarcus Cousins at the professional level.

Now, Malone has changed the culture in Denver. With a young core that exudes talent but lacks experience, Malone's confident that they'll continue to make strides. The process has already led to positive results, as the Nuggets had the 10th best defense in the NBA after the All-Star break last season.

It was a long and winding road to this point for Malone on an individual level, having served as an assistant with the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans), and the Golden State Warriors. However, it's a coach he never served under who left the longest lasting impact on Malone.

From CBS Sports' Matt Moore:

“When I got my job in Sacramento,” Malone related, “Coach [Gregg] Popovich in San Antonio has had an impact on my career in a very positive way. He called me up and he was so happy for me, and he said, ‘Listen, always be true to yourself. You're fiery, you're emotional,' just like he is. He goes, ‘But … my players know that I love them. So when I get on them, I follow it up with a hug and a pat on the back and let them know I care about them.'

“You have to let them know ‘I love you, and I care about you as a person first.'”

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Malone took that message to heart, developing a reputation around the league for his ability to connect with players. When that happens, you can get them to buy into your system.

He's also proficient in adapting to the various personalities that come along in the business:

“It all starts at the ground level: get to know them,” Malone said. “Whether you're a 19 year-old from Toronto, or a 20-year-old from Madrid, or a 21-year-old from Bosnia, to me, none of that matters. If I don't get to know them, there's never going to be a connection. I'm still a pretty young, hip guy which helps.

People often talk about the Gregg Popovich coaching tree, but it's clear that he's had an immense impact on other coaches, such as Malone, as well.