In a surprising move, the Lakers are closing in on UConn coach Dan Hurley as the team’s next head coach.
Hurley is scheduled to meet with the Lakers executives on Friday in California, with reports indicating that they want to secure him on a long-term deal.
The potential impact of this decision on the team’s star player, LeBron James, is crucial to consider.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, LeBron wants the coaching choice to prioritize the team’s future rather than focusing solely on him.
“When the Lakers began their coaching search after parting ways with Darvin Ham, they consulted LeBron about the situation,” said Windhorst on First Take. “LeBron’s message to them was to hire someone who looks beyond just his tenure. It should be a decision centered around Anthony Davis and the Lakers’ long-term needs.”
Windhorst further highlighted LeBron’s recent positive comments about Dan Hurley in a podcast with J.J. Redick, praising his coaching abilities and strategic insights.
Regardless of the final choice, the new Lakers head coach will face a daunting challenge ahead.
READ MORE: UConn Coach Dan Hurley’s Feelings on Taking Lakers Top Job