Tyronn Lue is reportedly the early favorite to become the Clippers’ next head coach.
But neither side is acting as if that pairing is fait accompli.
Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN:
Houston and New Orleans are among teams planning to interview Clippers assistant Ty Lue in near future, sources tell ESPN. The Clippers are expected to begin meeting with coaching candidates soon -- and Lue will be prominent in that search to replace Doc Rivers. https://t.co/PmyL4QfxPd
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 2, 2020
Pacers are meeting candidates this week and next, a roster of interviews that so far has included former Grizzlies/Kings coach Dave Joerger and Pelicans assistant Chris Finch, sources tell ESPN. Joerger is a strong contender in process. Chauncey Billups gets a sit-down soon too.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 2, 2020
Minnesota Timberwolves associate HC David Vanterpool will interview for the Houston Rockets head coaching job, sources tell ESPN. Vanterpool spent seven seasons on Portland staff before becoming the top assistant with Minnesota a year ago.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 2, 2020
Lue was the hot name on the coaching market until Doc Rivers supplanted him. He’ll likely have options.
The Clippers are closer to championship contention than the Rockets and Pelicans. Steve Ballmer would also likely outspend Tilman Fertitta and Gayle Benson.
As a Clippers assistant, Lue should have first-hand knowledge of the Clippers’ chemistry issues, though. He can decide whether he wants to deal with that.
The Clippers can also decide on someone other than Lue. Because of their general appeal, this is a prime opening.
Chris Finch is a new addition to the Pacers’ long list of known candidates, which already included Dave Joerger and Chauncey Billups.
David Vanterpool has drawn head-coaching consideration for years. It seems inevitable he’ll eventually get hired.
