6. Tyronn Lue, Los Angeles Clippers
Tyronn Lue’s LA Clippers teams over the past three seasons have been underwhelming despite the talent on the roster. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George missing significant time due to injury hasn’t helped.
Like Thibodeau, Tyronn Lue is willing to put young players on the floor during high-pressure situations. His teams have finished with a winning record in each of his six seasons as a head coach. Lue led the Clippers to the Western Conference finals for the first time in franchise history in 2021. He led the Cleveland Cavaliers to their only NBA Championship after being down 3-1 in the 2016 NBA Finals. Who else has done that? No one.
Tyronn Lue’s three NBA Finals appearances as an NBA head coach rank fourth among active coaches. He is a strong leader, can adjust, and demands respect in the huddle.