Friday 10 May 2019 07:15, UK
Tyronn Lue turned down a three-year deal to become head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, leaving the wandering franchise to reset its search for Luke Walton's replacement.
Lue reportedly had a chance to run the team, but considered the Lakers' three-year, $18m (£13.8m) offer a snub after discussing a five-year contract.
Jason Kidd and Juwan Howard interviewed for the job - as did Monty Williams, who was named head coach of the Phoenix Suns - and ESPN reported three others will visit with the team this week: Lionel Hollins, Frank Vogel and Mike Woodson. Vogel is scheduled for an interview on Thursday.
Since Magic Johnson abruptly departed the front office, the Lakers have moved methodically to address leadership roles. Walton was rumoured to be on the outs with LeBron James by midseason, but once fired was quickly named head coach of the Sacramento Kings.
Lue coached James to the NBA title with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
ESPN reported that Lakers adviser Kurt Rambis is playing a major role in hiring the next coach of the team.
Vogel, 45, was head coach of the Indiana Pacers from 2010-16. He also coached the Orlando Magic from 2016-18, and has a career record of 304-291.
Woodson, 61, is an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Clippers. He was last a head coach in 2014 with the New York Knicks.
Hollins, 65, coached the Memphis Grizzlies from 2008-13. He was hired by the Brooklyn Nets and coached the team from 2014-16.
