Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Tyronn Lue is taking a leave of absence from the team in order to deal with health issues, according to a statement released by the Cavs today. Associate head coach Larry Drew is expected to take over as head coach while Lue is away from the team.
Lue describes "chest pains and other troubling symptoms, compounded by a loss of sleep" as the reason he needs some time away from the Cavs. In the statement released today he says there are no conclusions to what the exact issue is, despite having undergone multiple tests.
"After many conversations with our doctors and Koby and much thought given to what is best for the team and my health, I need to step back from coaching for the time being and focus on trying to establish a stronger and healthier foundation from which to coach for the rest of the season.
I have had chest pains and other troubling symptoms, compounded by a loss of sleep, throughout the year. Despite a battery of tests, there have been no conclusions as to what the exact issue is.
While I have tried to work through it, the last thing I want is for it to affect the team. I am going to use this time to focus on a prescribed routine and medication, which has previously been difficult to start in the midst of a season. My goal is to come out of it a stronger and healthier version of myself so I can continue to lead this team to the Championship we are all working towards.
I greatly appreciate Dan Gilbert, Koby Altman, our medical team and the organization's support throughout."
With 13 games left in the regular season, the Cavs are currently sitting at 40-29 which is third in the Eastern Conference but just a half game up on both the Indiana Pacers and Washington Wizards. Cleveland will host the Milwaukee Bucks tonight in a game that will air on ESPN at 7pm ET.