Cleveland Cavaliers: 5 candidates to replace Tyronn Lue as head coach
5. Larry Drew
- Record: 143-169 (.458)
- Last head coaching job: Milwaukee Bucks (2013-14)
Second in command for Cleveland during Lue’s tenure, Larry Drew makes perfect sense as the plug-in replacement for the job. He is not only familiar with the roster and front office, but also has spent time leading this squad during a nine-game stretch last season during Lue’s medical absence.
The problem for Cleveland is that Drew, an NBA coaching vet with 22 years of experience as an assistant coach and four as a head coach, knows how this process plays out for interim coaches typically. Drew has vocalized that he is happy to assist with the duties during the hiring process but does not want to accept the role of acting head coach, or its responsibilities, without a more long-term commitment from the front office.
Larry Drew is willing to bridge the immediate coaching transition with Cavaliers, but so far is reluctant to commit to rest of season without an agreement of some kind that extends beyond 2018-19, league sources tell ESPN. Those talks are ongoing with Cleveland.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 28, 2018
The Cavaliers could benefit from staying in-house when it comes to finding their next head coach. Drew is a coach who is respected and liked by many players, and his coaching style works great for today’s game.
Drew could help push the tempo for a Cavs team that ranks 25th in the league when it comes to pace and would definitely help them find some fast break scoring, where they rank 21st. If Cleveland is willing to make the commitment, Larry Drew could be the answer.