NBA officials are speculating that Tyronn Lue, LeBron James’ former coach, would be a strong contender to take over as the Lakers’ next head coach after the team suffered another dismal season. When James was a member of the Cleveland Cavaliers for the second time, Lue was their coach. The squad enjoyed a great run, making it to the finals three times, and taking home their only championship in 2016.
Lue’s prospective Lakers arrival is contingent upon the outcome of Darvin Ham’s contract choice and the likelihood of a coaching change occurring in the Los Angeles Clippers following four seasons and a 2021 Western Conference Finals appearance.
NBA officials have talked about how LeBron James could affect a possible coaching switch. Even though the Lakers won an NBA Cup earlier this season and a title in 2020, they have had instability ever since LeBron James joined the organization in 2018. Three coaches have led the squad for the franchise since then: Luke Walton, Frank Vogel, and Ham.
LeBron James might want to get back together with Tyronn Lue, his former head coach of the Cavaliers, according to Heavy Sports. The Lakers had the chance to bring Lue on board as head coach in 2019, but the two NBA executives stated that they were unable to come to a contract. In 2020, Lue finally signed with the rival Clippers across town. Given that Lue is signed through the 2024–25 season, a league executive said that he might be traded if the Clippers decide to make changes. The executive added that it’s obvious that LeBron James wants Lue to be the Lakers’ coach when he becomes available.
LeBron James has designated Tyronn Lue as his top choice to be the Lakers’ head coach, according to a different executive. The executive did point out that it is overblown to believe James had any influence over employment decisions. The CEO made it clear that LeBron James is simple to deal with and that he values his thoughts, despite rumors to the contrary. However, the executive would be shocked if James did not urge the Lakers to sign Tyronn Lue if he became available.
Apart from Tyronn Lue, former NBA player JJ Redick and Milwaukee Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer are also being considered as coaching prospects for the Lakers.