Lakers Reportedly Eyeing UConn’s National Champion Coach Dan Hurley
The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly setting their sights on hiring Dan Hurley, the coach who has guided UConn to consecutive NCAA national titles, to be their next head coach. Hurley is renowned for his strategic acumen and player development skills, qualities that have positioned him as the Lakers’ top choice in their quest to replace Darvin Ham, who was let go in May following the team’s early exit from the playoffs.
Hurley inked a six-year, $32 million deal with UConn last year, but sources indicate that the Lakers are presenting him with a lucrative, long-term contract offer. While initial discussions have taken place between the 51-year-old coach and the Lakers, no formal offer has been extended as of yet. Hurley has expressed his aspirations to coach in the NBA, making the Lakers’ interest all the more enticing for him.
The Lakers are drawn to Hurley’s track record of nurturing player talent, a crucial factor in light of the NBA’s evolving landscape where reliance on three star players is no longer as viable. Developing emerging talents like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Max Christie alongside established stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis could be instrumental in the Lakers’ future success. Speculations have also surfaced about the Lakers potentially drafting LeBron’s eldest son, Bronny, this year, with Hurley’s involvement in the young player’s growth being a significant draw for the franchise.
LeBron James has previously expressed his admiration for Hurley, praising his coaching prowess and creativity. With a coaching career that includes stints at Wagner and Rhode Island before UConn, Hurley boasts a commendable 292-163 record as a head coach, further solidifying his appeal to the Lakers as they plot their next move in the competitive NBA landscape.
