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Kendrick Perkins Wants Tyronn Lue To Leave The Clippers
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Kendrick Perkins' passionate plea for Tyronn Lue to reconsider his contract extension with the LA Clippers resonates with the frustrations surrounding the team's recent playoff exits. Perkins, speaking out on First Take, highlighted the monumental task Lue faces every year in trying to elevate a star-studded roster that often falls short of expectations when it matters most. 

"Ty Lue, every single year that he has taken this head coaching job of being the coach of the Clippers, he has to turn water into wine every single year. And I'm here right now to tell Ty Lue, don't sign that contract extension."

"Don't sign it. Don't sign it. Because there's better opportunities that are out there right now in the NBA, and you're a coach that will be of demand, high demand, if you don't sign that contract extension." 

"Because you deserve better. You deserve guys that's going to be reliable, that's going to be healthy, and that's going to perform with effort." 

The Clippers' disappointing postseason performances, including consecutive first-round exits, have left Perkins and many others questioning the commitment and reliability of key players like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. Despite their immense talent, Leonard's calf injury and George's inconsistent play have hampered the team's success, leaving Lue to shoulder much of the burden.

Perkins' call for Lue to explore other opportunities in the NBA reflects a belief that the coach deserves better than what the Clippers have offered him. 

With a track record of success, including an NBA championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016, Lue's coaching acumen is unquestioned. However, his ability to work miracles year after year with a team plagued by injuries and inconsistency is unsustainable in the long run.

The contrast between the Clippers' underperformance and the stellar performances of opposing teams, such as the Dallas Mavericks led by Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic, underscores the challenges Lue faces in getting his star players to deliver when it matters most. Perkins' message to Lue emphasizes the need for a supportive and reliable roster that can execute his game plan and perform with consistent effort.

As speculation swirls about potential coaching vacancies across the league, including with the Los Angeles Lakers, Lue's decision whether to sign a contract extension with the Clippers remains uncertain. While Lue has expressed satisfaction with his current franchise, Perkins' words serve as a reminder of the value Lue brings as a coach and the importance of finding the right situation for his continued success in the NBA.

It Will Be A Massive Blow For The Clippers If Tyronn Lue Leaves The Clippers For The Lakers

If Tyronn Lue were to leave the LA Clippers for their cross-town rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, it would undoubtedly deal a massive blow to the Clippers organization. Lue's departure would not only leave a significant void in the coaching staff but also represent a symbolic loss for the Clippers, who have been striving for success in recent years.

Lue's potential move to the Lakers comes at a time when the storied franchise is seeking a new head coach following the departure of Darvin Ham. Reports indicate that Lue is among the top candidates for the position, and the Lakers are prepared to aggressively pursue him.

For the Clippers, losing Lue would be a bitter pill to swallow. Widely regarded as one of the best coaches in the league, Lue brought valuable experience and leadership to the Clippers bench. Despite facing challenges such as injuries to key players, Lue has consistently guided the team to competitive performances and playoff appearances.

However, it's not just Lue's coaching prowess that the Clippers would miss. His departure from the Lakers would also carry a sense of embarrassment for the organization, as it would be seen as a significant setback in their rivalry with the Lakers. 

Losing their head coach to their city rivals would highlight the Lakers' perceived superiority and further fuel the narrative of the Clippers playing second fiddle in Los Angeles.

Furthermore, Lue's departure could have ripple effects on the Clippers' roster and front office. Players and staff may question the direction of the organization, and the team's ability to attract and retain top talent could be called into question.

In summary, if Tyronn Lue were to leave the Clippers for the Lakers, it would not only be a significant loss for the Clippers in terms of coaching talent but also a blow to their pride and standing in the Los Angeles basketball landscape.

This article first appeared on Fadeaway World and was syndicated with permission.

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