The Los Angeles Lakers are making a strong push to bring UConn Huskies coach Dan Hurley to the NBA franchise. Hurley is impressed with the Lakers’ pitch and will make his final decision on Monday. He is considering leaving college basketball to join the glitz and glamor of Los Angeles. The team is reportedly planning to offer him a massive, long-term contract to lead the team.
Hurley, who led UConn to back-to-back national championships, signed a six-year, $32.1 million contract last summer. However, he has expressed interest in pursuing his dream of coaching in the NBA. If he decides to join the Lakers, he would replace Darvin Ham, who guided the team to the Western Conference Finals last year. His departure would leave a significant gap in the head coach position at UConn.
The Lakers had also been rumored to be targeting J.J. Redick as their next head coach. However, they seem focused on Hurley as their top choice. If their pursuit of Hurley fails, they have interviewed other candidates, including New Orleans Pelicans assistant coach James Borrego. LeBron James, who is set to become a free agent, has reportedly shown support for Hurley as head coach, praising his skills and creativity.
If Hurley decides to join the Lakers, he would be leaving behind a successful tenure at UConn. Despite wanting to stay in Storrs, Connecticut, to aim for a three-peat, the allure of coaching in the NBA for a storied franchise like the Lakers might be too enticing to pass up. The team is making a strong case for Hurley to lead them in the upcoming seasons.
Hurley’s decision to potentially leave UConn for the Lakers has sparked speculation and anticipation among basketball fans. The Lakers’ pursuit of Hurley reflects their desire to elevate the team and compete for championships in the future. With LeBron James potentially playing for a new team, adding a skilled and experienced coach like Hurley could be a strategic move for the Lakers as they navigate the next NBA season and beyond.
Whether Hurley ultimately decides to join the Lakers or remain at UConn, his impact on both teams and the basketball world as a whole is significant. His success in college basketball and the potential to transition to the NBA highlights his skill and leadership abilities. The Lakers’ pursuit of Hurley showcases their commitment to building a competitive team and securing top talent to lead them towards future success in the league.
