According to Brain Windhorst who was speaking on ‘First Take’, LeBron James recently conveyed a significant message to the Los Angeles Lakers management regarding their coaching decision, emphasizing the future of the organization and the role of Anthony Davis, while limiting his impact on the decision.
“Let me speak to the LeBron James side of it. When this process started for the Lakers, when they dismissed Darvin Ham, they obviously spoke to LeBron about the coaching situation. From what I understand what LeBron said to them was you have to hire somebody who is for beyond just me.”
“I might be here for another year, I might be here for two years, you’ve got to make a decision that’s built around Anthony Davis, that’s built around what the Lakers need for the next decade not just what I need.”
“Certainly, his feelings on the head coach are going to be taken into account but that’s the message LeBron gave them this type of hire this type of going for this type of candidate aligns with that.”
“Secondly LeBron has praised Dan Hurley and his acumen very recently in public, especially after this podcast he did with JJ Reddick.” (4:45)
During the Lakers’ coaching search, following the dismissal of Darvin Ham, James highlighted the importance of selecting a coach who could guide the team beyond his own tenure, which might last another year or two. LeBron’s input is crucial, but he stressed that the decision should be centered around Anthony Davis and the Lakers’ long-term needs.
LeBron’s endorsement of a candidate who could contribute to the franchise’s future reflects his understanding of the team’s evolving dynamics. While his influence on the decision is undeniable, he made it clear that the new coach must be capable of supporting Davis and fostering the growth of the team for the next decade.
This perspective aligns with the Lakers’ current pursuit of a suitable head coach, considering both immediate success and sustainable development.
In light of this, the Lakers have shown significant interest in Dan Hurley, the two-time NCAA Champion coach from the University of Connecticut. Reports suggest that the Lakers are preparing a substantial contract offer for Hurley, who has been a standout candidate from the beginning of their search.
Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported that the Lakers are moving forward with discussions, aiming to secure Hurley’s expertise for the team.
Hurley’s impressive track record includes leading UConn to back-to-back NCAA titles and being named the 2024 Naismith College Coach of the Year and the 2024 BIG EAST Coach of the Year.
His team-building and player-development skills have made him a desirable candidate for the Lakers, who believe he can guide their young core—featuring players like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Max Christie—to greater heights.
LeBron’s recent praise for Hurley, especially during a podcast with JJ Redick where he lauded Hurley’s coaching acumen, adds weight to the potential hiring. The Lakers are considering Hurley as a candidate who can adapt to the new NBA landscape under the collective bargaining agreement, which limits big-market teams’ ability to trade multiple draft picks for a third-star player.
The Lakers‘ decision to target Hurley indicates their commitment to building a team that can sustain success beyond LeBron’s tenure. While JJ Redick remains a strong candidate for the coaching position, Hurley’s potential appointment could bring a fresh perspective to the Lakers, aligning with LeBron’s vision for the franchise’s future.
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