Key Points
Contract Extension in the Works
The Los Angeles Clippers are working on offering Tyronn Lue a contract extension that will keep him as their head coach beyond the 2025-26 season, when his current deal is set to expire.
Lue’s Impressive Tenure with the Clippers
Lue has been the Clippers’ head coach for the past four seasons, taking over from Doc Rivers after the 2019-20 campaign. During his tenure, the Clippers have compiled a 51-31 record this season, securing the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference.
Clippers’ Commitment to Lue Unaffected by Playoff Performance
The Clippers’ decision to extend Lue’s contract is not contingent on the outcome of their current first-round playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks, which the Clippers trail 3-2. The team remains committed to retaining Lue as their head coach.
Lue’s Coaching Accolades
Lue has a notable coaching record, with a 184-134 win-loss record and three playoff appearances with the Clippers, including a 2021 Western Conference Finals berth. He previously won an NBA championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016.
Lakers’ Coaching Vacancy and Lue’s Potential Candidacy
Lue’s name has been mentioned as a potential candidate for the Los Angeles Lakers’ head coaching vacancy, which opened up after the team fired Darvin Ham. However, the Clippers’ plans to extend Lue’s contract may prevent him from even interviewing for the Lakers’ job.
Clippers’ Roster Moves and Free Agency Plans
The Clippers are also looking to re-sign their star players, Paul George and James Harden, who are set to become free agents after the current season. The team aims to maintain its status as a formidable playoff and championship contender under Lue’s leadership.
Lue’s Previous Coaching Opportunities
In 2019, the Lakers had expressed interest in Lue for their head coaching position, but the two parties failed to reach an agreement, leading Lue to join the Clippers’ staff under Doc Rivers.
Potential Candidates for the Lakers’ Coaching Job
If Lue is not available, the Lakers are reportedly considering other candidates, including former NBA player and ESPN analyst JJ Redick, former Nets coach Kenny Atkinson, and former Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer.
Clippers’ Playoff Situation
The Clippers are currently facing elimination in their first-round playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks, trailing 3-2. However, the team’s commitment to Lue is not affected by the playoff outcome.
Kawhi Leonard’s Injury and the Clippers’ Roster
Kawhi Leonard, the Clippers’ star player, has been ruled out for Game 6 against the Mavericks due to a knee injury. Despite this, the Clippers remain focused on retaining Lue and re-signing their other key players, Paul George and James Harden.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Clippers are determined to keep Tyronn Lue as their head coach, with plans to offer him a contract extension that will keep him with the team beyond the 2025-26 season. Lue’s impressive tenure, coaching accolades, and the team’s commitment to maintaining its championship contender status have made him a priority for the Clippers, even as they face a potential playoff elimination against the Dallas Mavericks. The Clippers’ decision to retain Lue may also impact the Los Angeles Lakers’ coaching search, as Lue was previously considered a potential candidate for their vacant position.
