In a surprising turn of events, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly targeting Connecticut’s Dan Hurley to be their next head coach.
According to NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, the Lakers are preparing to offer Hurley a significant long-term contract to entice him away from his successful tenure at Connecticut.
Sources indicate that initial talks have already begun between Hurley and the Lakers, with plans to ramp up negotiations in the upcoming days.
Hurley has emerged as a top contender for the Lakers coaching position, despite limited previous speculation linking him to the role.
The sudden interest in Hurley marks a significant change in the Lakers’ coaching search, with the organization evidently impressed by his accomplishments and coaching abilities.
Rob Pelinka and Jeanie Buss, key decision-makers for the Lakers, are keen on discussing their vision with Hurley and incorporating his winning strategies into the team’s framework.
“The Lakers in the next few days are in a full press to convince Dan Hurley to come to L.A. He’s told them that he wants to hear them out,” Wojnarowski said on UNSPORTSMANLIKE Radio. The Lakers and Rob Pelinka, they want to put a program in place in L.A.
“They don’t want to just have coach-to-coach,” he added. “They want to put a program in for the long term. They want Dan Hurley’s player development program.”
According to Wojnarowski, the Lakers are shifting their focus towards developing their own players instead of trading future assets for star players. This includes potentially drafting and developing Bronny James.
“The idea of Bronny James and the Lakers. They have the 55th pick. Who better, potentially, than Dan Hurley to be the development coach to lead his growth than the coach who’s really dominated the college sport?” Wojnarowski remarked.
With an impressive track record of success, including consecutive national championships at Connecticut, Hurley brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the table.
Stay tuned for further updates as negotiations between the Lakers and Hurley progress, shaping the future direction of the storied franchise.
