Everyone knew it was coming and now it’s official, as Tyronn Lue has been announced as new coach of the Los Angeles Clippers.
This marks the second time Lue has been a head coach, and also the second time it only took him moving over one chair. Last time, Lue was the lead assistant with the Cleveland Cavaliers and replaced David Blatt. This time, he was lead assistant in LA and replaced Doc Rivers.
Either way, Lue and the Clippers are hoping to bounce back from a disappointing finish, blowing a 3-1 series lead to the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the playoffs. With the likes of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George back in the fold, expectations will again be sky high.
“The pieces we need are in place — committed ownership, smart management and elite talent, on and off the court, in the NBA’s best market,” Lue said in a prepared statement. “My familiarity with the organization … confirmed this is where I want to be. We have work to do to become champions, but we have the motivation, the tools, and the support to get there. I’m excited to get started.”
Lue led LeBron James, Kyrie Irving the Cavs to the championship in his first season, overcoming the Golden State Warriors and their all-time-best record of 73-9. But James later departed for the other LA and Lue was fired six games into the 2018-19 season.
Former Cavaliers assistant Larry Drew, who replaced Lue in Cleveland, is also joining Lue’s staff with the Clippers.
