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NBA Champion Gives Two Reasons for Denying Coaching LeBron James, Lakers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rodney Knuppel | Last updated Aug 27, 2025 11:02 AM ET

Tyronn Lue has been linked to LeBron James since guiding the Cleveland Cavaliers to their 2016 NBA championship. With that connection, many expected him to take over as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, a team he once played for. Coaching James in purple and gold would have been seen as a dream opportunity, but Lue recently explained why he turned it down during an appearance on the “Club Shay Shay” podcast.

The Offer That Did Not Match Expectations

Lue revealed that the Lakers presented him with an offer that fell short of what he considered fair. Instead of a long-term commitment, Los Angeles offered him a three-year deal. Lue said he was looking for five years, believing the team tried to tie the contract length directly to James' playing window. That raised concerns about job security and stability.

The financial aspect also factored into his decision. Lue made it clear he believed the money was not competitive for a coach expected to guide a championship-level roster in a city as expensive as Los Angeles. He even joked on the podcast about the cost of living in L.A. compared to what was being offered.

Key Reasons Lue Declined Lakers Job

Contract length of three years instead of the five he wanted
Salary offer he believed was too low for the role

Lue’s Decision Changed the Coaching Landscape

When Lue declined, the Lakers eventually hired Frank Vogel, who led the team to the 2020 NBA title before being fired after the 2021-22 campaign. Meanwhile, Lue stayed patient and later found success with the Los Angeles Clippers, first as an assistant, then as head coach, where he continues to coach today.

The decision also showed how coaching jobs tied to star players can be risky. Once a franchise attempts to align a contract with the years a superstar is expected to remain, it can leave a coach vulnerable if the roster changes. For Lue, who had already won a championship, the security of a longer deal was non-negotiable.

What It Means for Coaching Careers

The story shows how top coaches evaluate more than just the chance to lead a legendary franchise or work with a superstar like James. Length of contract and financial value carry as much weight as roster strength. Lue’s refusal shows the business side of the NBA, where even dream jobs must meet professional standards.

In the end, Lue’s choice paid off. The Clippers have trusted him with the long-term vision he wanted, and the Lakers found their own championship path without him. Still, the story shows how close the basketball world came to seeing James reunited with the coach who helped deliver his greatest comeback victory.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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