Tyronn Lue is now out of the hunt for the head coaching position for the Los Angeles Lakers. It was a surprise to some, especially for the team's general manager Rob Pelinka who didn't expect the negotiations would fall apart.
Per Ramona Shelburne of ESPN, Pelinka never thought that the Lue-Lakers negotiation would reach an impasse and eventually end since Lue didn't have any offers from other teams.
One league source said it appeared that Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka never expected negotiations could fall apart as they did because Lue didn’t have other offers. Lue was seeking a 5-year deal, believing his championship experience commanded it.
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) May 9, 2019
According to sources, the Lakers offered Lue a three-year deal worth $18 million. However, the 42-year-old reportedly wanted a longer contract and thus more money, since he already has a championship ring to his name. Apart from money concerns, the LA organization reportedly wanted to have the final say on Lue's choice for his coaching staff.
Article Continues BelowWith Lue out of the picture, it's unclear who will the Lakers interview next. Monty Williams, another favorite to be the next head coach, was recently hired by the Phoenix Suns.
According to various rumors, Juwan Howard — former player now assistant coach of the Miami Heat — and Jason Kidd are the primary candidates on the Purple and Gold's list.
It's been an interesting season for the Lakers thus far. The Magic Johnson resignation caught everyone by surprise, including the organization itself. Now, things are looking more interesting as they continue to look for the next guy to coach LeBron James and crew.