The Los Angeles Lakers are wasting no time in their search for a new head coach. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, UConn coach Dan Hurley is scheduled to meet with Lakers leadership, including team owner Jeanie Buss and Vice President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka, this Friday.
This news comes after Hurley reportedly informed UConn’s administration and players about his interest in the Lakers’ vacancy. The Lakers, eager to find a replacement quickly, seem to view Hurley as a potential solution.
Hurley has found success at the collegiate level, leading UConn to the NCAA tournament in each of his three seasons there. However, the jump to the NBA is significant, and some may question his experience at the professional level.
Despite these concerns, some Lakers supporters, like veteran columnist Bill Plaschke, are enthusiastic about the prospect of Hurley taking the helm. Plaschke has even called it a “no-brainer” move.
Whether Hurley can translate his college success to the NBA remains to be seen. However, this upcoming meeting signifies the Lakers’ serious interest in him as a potential head coach. The NBA world will be watching closely to see if this meeting leads to a coaching change for the Los Angeles Lakers.
Hurley’s Strengths:
- College Pedigree: Hurley boasts a proven track record of building winning programs. He revitalized Wagner College and has UConn consistently competing for Big East titles.
- Player Development: Hurley has a reputation for getting the most out of his players. He’s known for emphasizing accountability and pushing them to reach their full potential. This could be crucial for young Lakers like Anthony Edwards.
- Defensive Focus: Hurley’s teams prioritize defense, which aligns with the Lakers’ desire to improve on that end. His defensive schemes could be particularly effective with veterans like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Potential Concerns:
- Lack of NBA Experience: Hurley has never coached in the NBA. The pressure and spotlight of the NBA are vastly different from college. Adapting to NBA talent and a star-driven environment could be a challenge.
- Temperament: Hurley’s fiery personality can be a double-edged sword. While it fuels his competitiveness, it’s also led to technical fouls and suspensions in college. Managing egos in the NBA locker room requires a different approach.
- Fit with Superstars: Can Hurley effectively manage and motivate veteran superstars like LeBron James? His success in college came with a different dynamic.
The Verdict:
This is a bold move by the Lakers. Hurley’s potential upside is undeniable, but the lack of NBA experience is a significant gamble. The success hinges on Hurley’s ability to adapt to the NBA landscape and manage a team with established stars.
Alternative Paths:
The Lakers could consider experienced coaches with a proven track record of success in the NBA. Names like Doc Rivers or Kenny Atkinson might be safer options, albeit potentially less exciting.
Ultimately, the Lakers’ decision will depend on their risk tolerance. Hurley offers a potentially transformative option, but comes with significant uncertainties. The upcoming meeting will be crucial in gauging Hurley’s vision and approach, and whether he can convince the Lakers he’s the right man to lead them back to championship glory.
