Quick Bytes
- LeBron James shows support for Dan Hurley’s potential Lakers coaching role via text.
- Hurley declines Lakers’ offer but is impressed by LeBron’s outreach.
- Lakers may now focus on JJ Redick as a coaching candidate.
- LeBron’s previous praise for Hurley’s coaching style is well-documented.
Lakers’ Coaching Search Takes a Turn with LeBron’s Involvement
Despite LeBron James’ initial stance of non-involvement in the Los Angeles Lakers’ coaching search, recent developments suggest otherwise.
While James has historically had a say in team decisions, he opted to distance himself from the current coaching selection process due to his contract situation and potential free agency. However, the narrative took an unexpected twist when it was revealed that James had sent supportive text messages to Dan Hurley, the UConn head coach considered for the Lakers’ role. Hurley shared his astonishment and gratitude for LeBron’s messages, which indicated a willingness to work together if Hurley joined the Lakers.
Although Hurley ultimately turned down the Lakers, the incident raises questions about LeBron’s influence on the team’s decisions and his possible preferences for the coaching position. With Hurley out of the picture, the Lakers seem to be pivoting back to JJ Redick, a former colleague of LeBron’s on their podcast, as their primary coaching candidate. Redick appears to be understanding of the situation and is ready to engage with the Lakers despite being a secondary choice.
LeBron’s admiration for Hurley’s coaching abilities isn’t new; he has openly commended Hurley’s offensive strategies with the Huskies in the past. This endorsement suggests that LeBron saw potential for Hurley’s approach to succeed in the NBA with the Lakers.