Tyronn Lue On Managing Kawhi Leonard & Paul George

New Los Angeles Clippers coach Tyronn Lue says he wants to implement a culture of collective leadership.

Last season was the first the Clippers had All-Stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George playing together. Both players can become free agents after next season.

As a result, a big part of Lue’s job will be how he manages them both.

“Our two players, they lead by example. Practicing hard and working hard every day individually on their game,” Tyronn Lue said. 

“You’re not going to have the best players be your leaders all the time. It’s going to be collective.”

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Both Leonard and George had their loads managed over last season. Kawhi only played in 57 games due to a left knee injury. Paul Goerge missed training camp entirely as he recovered from a shoulder issue.

Tyronn Lue said he will need to consult with team doctors before deciding how to use the superstar pair.

“They’re going to have to adjust to my system and my program, but I’m also going to have to adjust,” Lue said. 

“It starts on the defensive end with those two guys setting the tone every night.”

Lue will be tempted to use them as much as he can, considering the pressure he is under. His Clippers remit is to deliver the franchise’s first ever title.

Owner Steve Ballmer already set the tone, saying ‘my personality is all about winning.’

“Ty is my kind of guy,” Ballmer continued.

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“He wants to move, move, move, learn, absorb, think new thoughts, which I think is essential to keep pushing yourself.”

“I’m big on pressure,” Lue said. 

“If you don’t have pressure that means you don’t have a chance to win a championship. I want to be one of the greatest coaches.”