The basketball world has been buzzing with speculation ever since UConn basketball head coach Dan Hurley was linked to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Hurley shared with ESPN that the Los Angeles Lakers made a “compelling case” and laid out a “compelling vision” for him to become their next coach. Nonetheless, he expressed his love for what he has built at UConn, the two-time defending national champions, and plans to decide on his future by Monday.
The Uconn basketball coach told ESPN he was “extremely impressed” with Lakers VP and GM Rob Pelinka and owner Jeanie Buss. Hurley mentioned that he spent Sunday considering what sources described to ESPN as a massive, long-term offer to move to the NBA.
The Dan Hurley – Mike Krzyzewski animation
Fox Sports broadcaster John Fanta revealed that the Lakers are planning to offer Hurley a deal worth over $100 million. Jovan Buha of The Athletic noted that the Lakers' strong interest in Hurley is significantly influenced by Mike Krzyzewski's trust in the Uconn tactician.
The Lakers' pursuit of Hurley marks 20 years since they tried to hire Duke's Mike Krzyzewski with a groundbreaking contract in 2004. Krzyzewski decided to stay at Duke, but the environment in college athletics has changed significantly since then.
Earlier this year, Dan Hurley shared that Coach K had strongly encouraged him to take the UConn job back in 2018. After winning the 2023 championship, Hurley signed a contract extension with Connecticut worth $32.1 million over six years.
Uncertain future for Uconn basketball
The potential opportunity to coach a prestigious NBA team raises questions about his dedication to UConn's recruits and the program's future.
Hurley’s Huskies is welcoming five new players for the 2024-25 season. These include two transfers: point guard Aidan Mahaney from Saint Mary's and 6-foot-10 center Tarris Reed Jr. from Michigan. The other recruits are five-star forward Liam McNeeley, Ahmad Nowell, and Isaiah Abraham.
LeBron James has taken note of Hurley's advanced offensive strategies. James posted on X of Hurley: “He's so DAMN GOOD!!! Along with his staff. Super creative with their [offense]. Love it.”
What it means for the Lakers if Dan Hurley agrees to the coaching gig
If James returns to the Lakers in free agency, the potential addition of USC freshman guard Bronny James with the 17th, or the 55th overall pick could further enhance Hurley's appeal. This scenario would offer LeBron the opportunity to play alongside his son while entrusting Hurley and his team with Bronny James' professional growth.
The Lakers are prioritizing involving All-NBA forward Anthony Davis in discussions about their next head coach. They aim to ensure that the new coach's plans for both offense and defense align with how they intend to feature Davis on the court, according to sources.
In addition to their 17th overall pick in this month's draft, the Lakers possess a promising young core including Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Max Christie. The team's management is confident that these players can make significant strides under Dan Hurley's coaching.
NBA insider Marc Stein stated on Wednesday that Davis may have a preference for New Orleans assistant coach James Borrego as a potential candidate for the Lakers' head coach position, following the termination of Darvin Ham.
While there hasn't been official confirmation, Dan Hurley faces a challenging decision. The Lakers' substantial offer and the opportunity to thrive in the NBA are factors he'll definitely carefully consider.
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