The Los Angeles Clippers have made a significant addition to their coaching staff by appointing Jeff Van Gundy as the new top assistant under head coach Ty Lue. This move, announced on Tuesday, is expected to have a considerable impact on the team's future both on and off the court.
Jeff Van Gundy's Extensive Experience
Van Gundy brings a wealth of experience to the Clippers. Prior to joining the team, he worked for the Boston Celtics in a front-office capacity during their championship-winning season last year. The Celtics claimed their 18th title in team history, with Van Gundy playing a crucial behind-the-scenes role in that success.
A highly accomplished NBA head coach, Van Gundy’s resume is impressive. He has led both the New York Knicks and Houston Rockets, with his coaching career spanning well over a decade. One of his most notable achievements came in 1999 when he guided the Knicks to the NBA Finals. His tenure with the Rockets ended in 2007 when he was dismissed.
Transitioning from coaching to broadcasting, Van Gundy joined ESPN in 2007, remaining a fixture there for 16 years before returning to a team environment with the Celtics.
Involvement with Team USA
Van Gundy has also made significant contributions to USA Basketball, albeit mostly behind the scenes. While he did not coach the star-studded teams that compete in the Olympics and other major tournaments, he was instrumental in helping Team USA qualify for these events. Under his leadership, the team clinched gold at the 2017 FIBA AmeriCup and secured qualification for the 2019 World Cup.
His role in these qualifications did not go unnoticed. It was during his stint with Team USA that he forged a close relationship with Ty Lue. According to Wojnarowski, Lue, now the Clippers’ head coach, serves as an assistant under Steve Kerr on the national team's staff.
Changes in the Clippers' Coaching Staff
The Clippers have experienced some changes in their coaching staff recently, most notably when lead assistant Dan Craig departed to join the Chicago Bulls. This departure created an opening for Van Gundy to step into a significant role on Lue's bench. Adding Van Gundy to the coaching staff brings another layer of expertise and experience, which could prove invaluable for the Clippers in the upcoming season.
Pivotal Offseason for the Clippers
This offseason is critical for the Clippers as they face crucial decisions regarding their roster. Both Paul George and James Harden are set to become free agents, and their futures with the team are uncertain. Harden is not expected to attract a robust market, while multiple teams are reportedly eager to pursue George.
The Clippers have reportedly not extended a full, four-year max contract offer to George, unlike teams such as the Philadelphia 76ers and Orlando Magic, who are expected to make such offers. This uncertainty casts a shadow over George’s future with the team.
Regardless of which players ultimately suit up for the Clippers next season, the team’s coaching staff will undoubtedly be one of the NBA's best. Lue, a former champion and one of the most respected head coaches in the game, now adds another well-known former head coach and broadcaster to his bench in Van Gundy. The combination of these coaching minds could make a significant impact on the team's performance, both in terms of strategy and player development.
Optimism for the Future
As the Clippers navigate this pivotal offseason, the addition of Jeff Van Gundy to their coaching staff injects a sense of optimism and readiness. His extensive experience, combined with Lue’s proven track record, sets the stage for a potentially successful campaign. Van Gundy's history of success and his close relationship with Lue should serve the Clippers well as they aim to solidify their roster and prepare for the challenges of the upcoming NBA season.
One thing is certain: no matter who ends up on the court, the Clippers will be guided by one of the league's most experienced and respected coaching staffs. This new dynamic duo of Lue and Van Gundy brings high hopes for what lies ahead.