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The offseason's biggest story was the nine-time All-Star Paul George's subtraction from the Los Angeles Clippers. That move garnered plenty of attention, especially since the Clippers didn't get any assets in return. However, one development that went under the radar but could significantly impact the team's future is hiring experienced coach Jeff Van Gundy.
JVG will rejoin the NBA ranks after spending 16 years in the television booth, earning a reputation as a knowledgeable source of information and an entertaining color commentator. As a coach, he led the New York Knicks to the NBA Finals in 1999 and had stints with the Houston Rockets and the USA Men's National Team.
A dedicated hoop lifer
Clippers head coach Ty Lue and JVG spent much time together this summer as the two were assistant coaches on the victorious Team USA squad in the Paris Olympics. There, Lue experienced Jeff's dedication to helping the Clippers become a better team this upcoming season, getting phone calls at all hours about ways to improve their performance on both ends.
"He's a basketball film rat. He's calling me, asking me questions, offensively, defensively, all the different things about Game 17 of last season. I don't remember that sh**. But he's locked into all that," Lue revealed to ESPN.
With the Clippers losing PG, Lue and JVG must craft a suitable game plan that would get the most out of Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and the solid cast of role players they have surrounding their two superstars. JVG's extensive coaching experience will help Ty do that.
"Losing PG, starting over with a younger team, and doing things the right way -- it will take both of us to get our guys on track. The addition of Jeff will be huge for us," Lue added.
Well-versed with one another
This will not be Lue and Van Gundy's first time working together. The former point guard played for JVG on the Houston Rockets during the 2004-2005 season. Additionally, Ty has also played for Jeff's brother Stan.
JVG shared that being back on the sidelines for the first time in a long while has made him anxious and excited.
"I'm a little nervous and on edge. Because I want to do my part, blend in with the other coaches, and help Ty because I'm really grateful for the opportunity," JVG said.
There's plenty of uncertainty surrounding the Clippers' future, and it will take the shared experiences of Ty Lue and JVG to bring the team to where they want to go.
Related: A trade proposal to acquire the versatile two-way player Dorian Finney-Smith for the LA Clippers
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