The rumors are flying…
The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly set to make a significant, long-term offer to Dan Hurley of the University of Connecticut to become their new head coach. This development is unexpected, especially considering recent speculations linking the Lakers to former NBA player and commentator J.J. Redick. Discussions with Hurley are expected to intensify in the near future, indicating a serious interest from the Lakers in securing his services. Hurley has recently led UConn to consecutive NCAA championships in 2023 and 2024.
This is who the Lakers might be getting as their coach. Dan Hurley.
Look at the passion in his coaching. Not standing around. Active in the game. Not afraid of getting ejected. I cannot freaking wait. pic.twitter.com/OwfjOpGHxR
— Zeebs (@killerzeebs) June 6, 2024
Hurley, 51, has spent his entire coaching career in college and prep basketball. Before his successful stint at UConn from 2018 to 2024, he was the head coach at Rhode Island from 2012 to 2018 and at Wagner from 2010 to 2012. He also served as an assistant coach at Rutgers between 1997 and 2001. During his tenure at UConn, Hurley achieved a record of 141 wins and 58 losses, including an impressive 37-3 record in the 2023-24 season. His outstanding performance earned him the Naismith College Coach of the Year and Sporting News National Coach of the Year titles.
Prior to his college coaching career, Hurley was at St. Benedict’s Prep from 2001 to 2010, where he compiled a record of 223-21, coached four McDonald’s All-Americans, and led teams that ranked in the national top-five four times.
.@wojespn says the Lakers have been "relentless" in targeting Dan Hurley as the team's next HC 👀 pic.twitter.com/SNwEuVQAga
— First Take (@FirstTake) June 6, 2024
While Hurley has built a formidable resume in college basketball, J.J. Redick was initially considered a more recognizable figure for NBA fans. Redick had a distinguished 19-year NBA career, including a notable period with the Los Angeles Clippers, and transitioned into media. He has been active in sports media, hosting two podcasts and working as a commentator. His connections and media presence made him a strong candidate for the Lakers, especially considering his co-hosting duties with Lakers star LeBron James on one of the podcasts.
Geno Auriemma to Dan Hurley last night: “I think you could win a lot of championships with the Lakers, more so than a guy who’s never coached.” Interview from The Dan Patrick Show:
— John Fanta (@John_Fanta) June 6, 2024
However, according to recent reports, Hurley has been the primary focus of the Lakers’ search from the start, with the coach having previously expressed interest in moving to the NBA. Although this would be the first NBA head coaching role for either Redick or Hurley, the Lakers’ offer appears poised to be one that Hurley might find hard to turn down.
The final decision and more details about the Lakers’ future direction are expected to be revealed soon as the team looks to rebuild and strengthen its coaching staff heading into the next season.
Major Points
- The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly preparing a significant long-term offer for UConn’s Dan Hurley to become their new head coach.
- This move comes as a surprise, with previous speculations linking the Lakers to former NBA player and commentator J.J. Redick.
- Hurley, who has led UConn to consecutive NCAA championships in 2023 and 2024, has a strong coaching record at the college level.
- Despite Redick’s higher profile among NBA fans due to his playing career and media presence, Hurley has been the Lakers’ main target for the coaching role.
- The Lakers are expected to finalize and announce their decision soon, aiming to strengthen their team with Hurley’s coaching expertise.
Fallon Jacobson – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
