LA Clippers head coach Ty Lue is embarking on a significant restructuring of his roster as the new NBA season approaches, navigating the complexities arising from the departure of key player Paul George and the acquisition of new defensive assets.
Paul George has made a high-profile move to the Philadelphia 76ers, securing a four-year, $212-million deal. This monumental shift places pressure on Coach Lue and his team to adapt quickly. George's absence is a notable challenge, not just in terms of scoring but also significantly impacting the team’s defensive strategies.
"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," Lue acknowledges. "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."
Defensive Reinforcements
In response to George’s departure, the Clippers have secured the services of Derrick Jones Jr., Nicolas Batum, and Kris Dunn, all known for their defensive capabilities. This strategic move underscores Lue’s commitment to fortifying the team’s defense.
Lue’s recent experience as Team USA's defensive coordinator during the Olympics could prove invaluable in this new phase for the Clippers. Additionally, Jeff Van Gundy has joined the Clippers as Lue's top assistant and defensive coordinator, marking his return to an NBA sideline after a 17-year hiatus.
"Jeff is not afraid to share his opinion. It was just a great move,” says colleague Mark Few, highlighting Van Gundy’s assertive approach.
Lue is optimistic about Van Gundy’s impact on the team, stating, "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. 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."
Kawhi Leonard’s Return
Another focal point for the Clippers is star player Kawhi Leonard. Leonard demonstrated his durability by playing 68 of the first 74 games in the 2023-24 season but was sidelined by a knee injury towards the season’s end. However, Coach Lue has expressed confidence in Leonard’s recovery.
"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," states Lue, underscoring the importance of Leonard's return to the team’s success.
Resilient Optimism
Lue and his coaching staff are fully aware of the challenges that come with such a significant roster overhaul. However, Lue’s unwavering optimism is evident as he prepares to lead a restructured team into the new season.
Ty Lue’s commitment to overcoming the odds and proving the skeptics wrong is palpable. "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. But 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."
It's a new chapter for the LA Clippers, filled with both uncertainty and promise. With a revamped roster, a blend of fresh and seasoned defensive minds, and the resilient spirit of their head coach, the Clippers are ready to face the upcoming challenges head-on.