In a bold move worthy of Hollywood, the Lakers are gunning for UConn’s Dan Hurley as their next head coach. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, they’re ready to back up the Brinks truck with a hefty long-term contract for the back-to-back NCAA national champion.
Everyone thought the job was practically JJ Redick’s to lose, so Thursday’s early morning revelation was a real curveball. But if you look at Hurley’s sterling coaching credentials, it makes perfect sense.
Wojnarowski notes that Hurley has been in the Lakers’ crosshairs since the get-go. Hurley has “been at the forefront of the Lakers’ search from the beginning of the process” thanks to his exceptional “tactical acumen and elite player development,” qualities that align perfectly with the legendary Lakers brand.
Dan Hurley is a great candidate to coach the Lakers
Few candidates are as qualified for the Lakers’ head coaching gig as Dan Hurley. This guy is a trailblazer—the first men’s college coach to secure back-to-back national championships since Billy Donovan achieved the feat with Florida in 2007. Hurley’s career record in college, an impressive 141-58, speaks volumes. And his NCAA tournament performance? A jaw-dropping 12 consecutive double-digit wins.
UConn’s domination this past season, with a staggering 37-3 record and a seamless march through the NCAA tournament, is a testament to Hurley’s strategic genius. His offensive schemes are intricate and precise, like a Swiss watch, creating fantastic scoring opportunities for his team. No wonder LeBron James has taken notice. According to Wojnarowski, LeBron “has been impressed with Hurley’s sophisticated offensive actions.”
Hurley’s knack for player development is another feather in his cap. Donovan Clingan and Stephon Castle are projected lottery picks in the upcoming draft, showcasing Hurley’s ability to mold top-tier talent. This bodes well for LeBron, especially if the team decides to draft Bronny with their no. 55 pick.
Coaching runs in Hurley’s veins. His father was a legendary high school coach in New Jersey, amassing 26 state championships. His brother, a two-time national champion with Duke, is now coaching at Arizona State. Clearly, Hurley was born for this role.
In summary, Dan Hurley isn’t just a qualified candidate; he’s the perfect blend of tactical brilliance, player development prowess, and basketball heritage. The Lakers would be hitting a slam dunk by bringing him on board.
Why Lakers might choose Dan Hurley over JJ Redick
If Dan Hurley decides to take the Lakers’ offer, he could face several potential challenges.
First up is building a relationship with LeBron James. Coaching LeBron isn’t a walk in the park. Tactical brilliance alone won’t cut it—remember, LeBron once tried to get Eric Spoelstra fired. Hurley would be the tenth coach in LeBron’s career, a testament to the high standards and pressures involved.
Hurley’s personality is another potential sticking point. The NBA is a players’ league, vastly different from the college environment where coaches wield more authority. Hurley, who’s never shied away from showing his emotions, might find this transition tricky. “I’m a crier,” Hurley told FOX Sports. “I laugh, I yell, and I cry. Jim Valvano said that’s a full day.”
JJ Redick was in the running for the job for different reasons. His extensive 15-year NBA career gives him an edge in understanding the grueling pace of an NBA season, something other college coaches, like John Beilein with the Cavs, have struggled with. Redick’s existing relationship with LeBron was another plus.
However, Hurley brings proven tactical expertise and a strong track record in player development, overshadowing Redick’s experience in this area. While coaching in the NBA is a different ball game, Hurley’s success with UConn and his ability to develop players give him a lower risk profile for the Lakers.
The bigger question is whether Hurley even wants the job. He’s got a great setup at UConn, having signed a six-year, $31.5 million extension last summer. However, the timing of the Lakers’ interest is perfect for Hurley. Coaching salaries have soared, with the Pistons’ six-year, $78.5 million deal setting a new benchmark. Hurley could more than double his current salary with a move to the NBA.
If he does make the leap, Hurley will need to earn every penny. The Lakers’ job is one of the toughest in the league, with immense scrutiny from both within and outside the organization. Just look at how Darvin Ham was criticized mid-season, or how Frank Vogel was fired two years after winning a championship.
Hurley’s past experience suggests he’s up to the challenge. It will be fascinating to see how he handles the pressure and whether he can translate his college success to the NBA stage.
