A lot of job security is attached to guaranteed contracts, and for Kris Dunn, next season is relatively uncertain unless he makes the league’s 2026 All-Defensive team. Before the LA Clippers’ blowout win against the Milwaukee Bucks, head coach Tyronn Lue was asked about it. Instead of beating around the bush or sharing a vague response, Lue reassured Dunn with words that have to feel good.
Kris Dunn’s $5.7 million contract next season becomes guaranteed if he makes All-Defense. Asked Tyronn Lue about the responsibility of making sure guys have that opportunity to reach incentives: “He’s gonna be guaranteed regardless. ... As long as I’m here, I want KD.” pic.twitter.com/cm9uZjy3BX
— Justin Russo (@FlyByKnite) March 24, 2026
In the same breath, most guys, particularly role players, never hear these types of words from their coach. The NBA is a cold business, and essentially anything can happen at any point in time; it’s simply unpredictable, no matter how you look at it, as the team’s best interest is always priority number one.
But Lue ultimately gave Dunn a verbal promise that his job is safe and that he will receive every penny of his $5.7 million contract, even if he misses the All-Defensive cut.
Dunn has to be sighing with relief, as a massive worry was just lifted from his shoulders.
Tyronn Lue has realized how valuable Kris Dunn is to the Clippers
For Kris Dunn, the All-Defensive team shouldn’t even be a question. He’s averaging 1.6 steals, is fifth in the league in deflections, and has done both while constantly taking on the challenge of guarding every elite guard the LA Clippers matchup with.
If we're being honest, Dunn should be competing for a back-to-back campaign, but he was disqualified last season for failing to meet the minimum number of minutes required under the 65-game rule. That’s not a problem this season, though, as he’s currently averaging 27.5 per game.
All in all, Dunn is literally a cheat code, and in the playoffs, he will be more helpful than ever to the Clippers. Tyronn Lue has realized this, and that’s provoked a meaningful response on how valuable Dunn is to him.
The cherry on top: Dunn has posted 7.7 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.3 rebounds, so far, in 72 games, while shooting 48.2% from the field and 38.0% from beyond the arc.
It’s also worth noting that Dunn fixed the one criticism people have always said about him, three-point shooting, and has evolved into someone who cannot be left open.
Dunn is the epitome of what the Clippers need on both sides of the ball. Lue knows it, the fans know it, and in the offseason, it won't even be a question to every member of the front office.