Key Takeaways:
– Tyronn Lue dismissed rumors of a move to the Los Angeles Lakers after the Clippers’ first-round exit in the NBA Playoffs.
– The Clippers’ management is said to be committed to extending Lue’s contract, who is currently in the last year of his current deal.
– Lue expressed his desire to stay with the Clippers, appreciating the relationship with the management and owner.
– In 2019, Tyronn Lue rejected a coaching offer from Lakers due to feeling disrespected.
– Potential Lakers’ coaching options include Mike Budenholzer, Kenny Atkinson, JJ Redick, and Charles Lee, as reported by The Athletic.
Staying with the Clippers
Tyronn Lue, head coach of Los Angeles Clippers, has rebuffed rumors regarding a potential move to the Los Angeles Lakers, following his team’s recent early playoff exit. He spoke to reporters after their loss against the Dallas Mavericks in Game 6, expressing his satisfaction with the Clippers’ management and owner.
“I don’t really have a comment on that. It’s great to be wanted, that’s a really good feeling but I want to be here and hopefully we’re able to solidify that,” Lue declared, ending speculations about a possible reunion with LeBron James at the Lakers.
Focus on the Clippers
Rumors of a move started circulating after Darvin Ham was fired from the Lakers. Reports suggested that Lue was a potential candidate to fill the coaching position. However, Lue, who will be entering the final year of his current contract, stated his commitment to the Clippers. “I didn’t come here to bounce around. This is where I want to be,” he said.
Past Discontent with the Lakers
The Lakers had shown interest in Ty Lue back in 2019 and he was their first choice before ultimately selecting Frank Vogel. However, Lue declined the Lakers offer, feeling slighted by the way he was treated during the negotiation process.
“I’m coming to win,” Lue explained in a 2022 interview with ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk. “I just didn’t think I was treated fairly. And I wasn’t just going to accept any offer.” Lue felt that the Lakers were undermining his capabilities as a coach and that they hadn’t offered him a deal reflective of his worth.
Possible Coaching Candidates for Lakers
Following Lue’s dismissal, four potential coaching options for the Lakers have been identified by The Athletic. Mike Budenholzer, Kenny Atkinson, ESPN analyst JJ Redick, and Charles Lee could all be possibilities for the Lakers. Charles Lee and Redick are also being considered for responsibilities at the Charlotte Hornets.
Thus, a reunion of Tyronn Lue and LeBron James at the Lakers seems unlikely. Instead, Lue looks forward to staying and steering the Clippers to more victories, as their management plans to extend his contract.