The NBA coaching carousel saw a big shakeup on Monday when Doc Rivers and the Los Angeles Clippers agreed to part ways. The move came after the Clippers’ disappointing end to the season in the second round of the playoffs at the hands of the Denver Nuggets, all but forcing the franchise’s hand with Rivers.
Though not at the top of many lists, the New Orleans Pelicans have remained active in the coaching market. On top of reaching out to Rivers in the aftermath of his departure from Los Angeles, the team is also set to interview Clippers assistant coach Ty Lue about their opening as well.
Sources: Ty Lue not only has the Clippers interested in talking to him for their opening in the wake of Doc Rivers being let go, but Lue has the 76ers, Rockets and Pelicans preparing to talk to him in coming days. Lue scheduled to meet with 76ers Tuesday or Wednesday.
— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) September 28, 2020
Lue has been an interesting candidate for the Clippers from the onset. His championship pedigree would be in high demand for any of the top openings, of which the Pelicans are not. However, Lue’s history with Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin in Cleveland has made the Pelicans a serious landing spot.
However, Rivers’ departure creates another opening that may be hard to turn down for Lue. After spending a season as the assistant coach in Los Angeles, Lue would have a familiarity with the franchise and a roster that includes two of the top players in the league. That being said, the job would come with immense pressure and could be one that is short-lived with both Kawhi Leonard and Paul George able to enter free agency next off-season.
The Pelicans still remain a threat to land Lue, but a diminishing one with multiple win-now situations available to the top candidates.
