NBA coaching carousel: Tyronn Lue officially hired as LA Clippers' new head coach
Former Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Tyronn Lue has accepted a five-year contract offer to become the new head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers, according to multiple reports.
Lue, who led the Cavaliers to the 2016 NBA championship, is expected to be officially introduced on Tuesday in Los Angeles. He replaces Doc Rivers, who was fired last month after seven seasons with the Clippers.
Lue, 44, has a career coaching record of 128-83 (.607), including a 59-33 (.641) mark with the Cavaliers in the playoffs. He was named the NBA's Coach of the Year in 2016 after leading the Cavaliers to their first championship in franchise history.
"Tyronn Lue is a proven winner with a championship pedigree," Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank said in a statement. "He has a unique ability to connect with players, build strong relationships and get the most out of his teams. We are confident that Ty is the right person to lead our franchise to the next level."
Lue's hiring comes after a lengthy coaching search by the Clippers, who interviewed several candidates, including former Utah Jazz coach Quin Snyder and former Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle. Lue is expected to bring a defensive-minded approach to the Clippers, who have struggled defensively in recent seasons.
The Clippers are coming off a disappointing season in which they finished 42-40 and lost in the first round of the playoffs to the New Orleans Pelicans. Lue is expected to be given the resources to improve the roster this offseason, with the Clippers having significant salary cap space to spend.
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