LA Clippers head coach Ty Lue is determined to reshape and drive his team to success despite notable changes and challenges in their lineup. With the departure of star player Paul George and the introduction of new defensive talents, Lue is approaching the upcoming season with a strategic mindset and renewed vigor.
Major Roster Changes
The Clippers recently saw the departure of Paul George, who has joined the Philadelphia 76ers on a lucrative four-year, $212-million deal. This loss signaled a significant shift for the Clippers, both in terms of team dynamics and on-court strategy. Speaking about George's departure, Lue acknowledged the skepticism surrounding the Clippers' future prospects, stating, “When you lose a guy of Paul George's stature, instantly people [think] oh, they can't win or they're not going to be competitive.”
However, Lue is not one to be easily discouraged. “That just challenges me even more. OK, people are counting us out or people don't think we're going to be good. That right there just gives me an extra dose of [motivation]. I can't wait to prove everybody wrong,” he added.
New Defensive Acquisitions
In response to George's departure, the Clippers have fortified their defense by acquiring players like Derrick Jones Jr., Nicolas Batum, and Kris Dunn. These additions are part of Lue's plan to rebuild the team through a robust defensive strategy. “When you lose an important piece like Paul, you gotta do it by committee. He's a very huge defensive player for us, handling the ball, scoring the basketball, making plays. So losing him is going to be tough,” Lue commented.
The new recruits reflect Lue’s commitment to ensuring the team remains competitive. He emphasizes the importance of a collective effort, stating, “The pieces that we added this year, we got to play a different style. But we're going to play winning basketball and I know we're going to have a chance to be pretty good.”
Coaching Staff Revamp
Significantly, the Clippers have bolstered their coaching staff by bringing in Jeff Van Gundy as the top assistant and defensive coordinator. Van Gundy’s return to the NBA sidelines marks his first in 17 years. His wealth of experience and strategic acumen are expected to be a significant asset for the Clippers. “Jeff is not afraid to share his opinion. It was just a great move,” remarked Mark Few.
Lue himself expressed confidence in Van Gundy’s ability to make an immediate impact. “That's what we need. Losing PG, starting over with a younger team and doing things the right way — it's going to take both of us to really get our guys on track. The addition of Jeff is going to be huge for us,” Lue elaborated.
Optimism for Kawhi Leonard
Meanwhile, the Clippers' other star, Kawhi Leonard, faced his own challenges with a late-season knee injury, having played 68 of the first 74 games in the 2023-24 season. Lue conveyed optimism regarding Leonard’s return to full fitness, stating, “I speak to him all the time. He'll be ready for [Clippers] training camp. He's feeling good and I know he'll be ready.”
A Beautiful Mind's Approach
Reflecting on his coaching philosophy and preparation, Lue revealed his deep, analytical approach to the game - a trait admired by peers in the league. “He's like Russell Crowe in 'A Beautiful Mind’," remarked Erik Spoelstra, highlighting Lue’s meticulous and strategic mindset. Lue himself admitted to his near-obsession with the details of the game. “He's a basketball film rat. He's calling me, asking me questions, offensively, defensively, all the different things about game 17 [of last season]. I don't remember that s---. But he's locked into all that," he said.
With the reshaped lineup and comprehensive coaching strategy, the Clippers are set to navigate the upcoming season with a clear focus on achieving success. “We're going to play winning basketball, and I know we're going to have a chance to be pretty good. It's going to be my job to make sure we get to that point — whatever I have to do,” Lue concluded.