Who is Dan Hurley? Everything you need to know about the Lakers coaching candidate

Connecticut coach Dan Hurley speaks during a news conference ahead of the NCAA Final Four on April 4. Hurley is considered a leading candidate for the Lakers’ coaching job. (David J. Phillip / Associated Press)

Surprise, surprise.

That echo you heard was the Lakers doubling down on the coach who just followed one dominant march through March with another.

Dan Hurley’s historic run through the last two NCAA tournaments with the UConn Huskies has apparently vaulted him to the top of the Lakers’ wish list as they seek a replacement for Darvin Ham.

His qualifications? Back-to-back championships while winning every game by double figures thanks to a buzzsaw offense and Amazon-like efficiency.

Here’s a look at the situation and what the Lakers might be getting should they land the 51-year-old:

Why would the Lakers be interested in Hurley?

Connecticut coach Dan Hurley reacts during a win over Purdue in the NCAA championship game on April 8. (David J. Phillip / Associated Press)

Hurley is one of the hottest coaching commodities at any level after becoming the first college coach since Billy Donovan in 2006 and 2007 to win back-to-back college titles.

He’s known for strong player development and a dynamic motion offense that has already drawn praise from Lakers star LeBron James.

“He’s so DAMN GOOD!!!” James tweeted in reference to a recent JJ Redick podcast interview with Hurley. “Along with his staff. Super creative with their O! Love it.”

Hurley told Redick on that podcast that he designed his offense to keep defenses guessing because every possession creates possibilities for a shooter off a screen, a post player on the low block or an isolation opportunity for a drive to the basket.

Read more: Plaschke: Hurley up! The Lakers need to hire UConn champ Dan Hurley now

“So, out of each formation, any time we run it, the defense is going to have no idea whether it’s a post-up, something for a shooter or whatever it is,” Hurley said.

Hurley’s reputation for development could accelerate the growth of the Lakers’ young players and enhance the prospects for Bronny James should the team draft the former USC…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/dan-hurley-everything-know-lakers-224459428.html

Author : LA Times

Publish date : 2024-06-06 22:44:59

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