Los Angeles Lakers Make Aggressive Offer to UConn Coach Dan Hurley in Coaching Search
ICARO Media Group
In a bid to secure a new head coach, the Los Angeles Lakers have set their sights on UConn's Dan Hurley. The organization, determined to make a strong impression, reportedly extended an offer surpassing $100 million to convince Hurley to make the move to the West Coast.
Having led UConn to back-to-back NCAA National Championships, Hurley faces a challenging decision. After flying to Los Angeles to meet with Lakers executives Rob Pelinka and Jeanie Buss, Hurley and his family returned home to contemplate their options. Reports suggest that a decision will likely be made before UConn's practice on Monday.
Adam Zagoria, an esteemed basketball insider, revealed that Hurley had not yet addressed his UConn players as of Sunday. However, given Hurley's upfront and honest approach with his team throughout the process, it is expected that he will speak with them first once a decision has been reached.
The Lakers, understanding the gravity of this decision, are in no rush and have no reason to expedite the process. If Hurley were to decline their offer, the team's next best option is reportedly JJ Redick, who is currently occupied as an ESPN analyst for the NBA Finals.
With the NBA Draft looming less than three weeks away, the Lakers are keen on having a coach in place by then. Whether it's Hurley, Redick, or another candidate, the team wants to solidify their coaching personnel for the future.
Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, who knows both Hurley and Redick well, shared his thoughts on the potential fits for the Lakers. Kidd praised Hurley's championship pedigree, having won two titles with UConn and commended Redick's high basketball IQ and understanding of the game. Kidd expressed confidence that either candidate would be a valuable addition to the Lakers organization.
As the Lakers continue their coaching search, the basketball world eagerly awaits the decision. Will Hurley take the enticing offer to build a new program on the West Coast, or will he remain with UConn and continue his successful reign as head coach? Only time will tell as the Lakers navigate through this critical period of uncertainty.
In other news, NBA superstar LeBron James has reportedly signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, marking his second departure from the Cleveland Cavaliers.