Lakers Reportedly Finalizing Offer to UConn's Dan Hurley Amid J.J. Redick Rumors

The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly in the final stages of offering a long-term contract to Connecticut men's basketball coach Dan Hurley, despite earlier targeting J.J. Redick for the head coaching position.

The Los Angeles Lakers' head coaching search has taken a dramatic turn, with reports emerging that they are finalizing an offer to UConn men's basketball coach Dan Hurley. This development comes after previous rumors had suggested that former NBA player J.J. Redick was the Lakers' primary target.

According to ESPN, the Lakers and Hurley are set to "elevate discussions" in the coming days regarding the possibility of Hurley leaving UConn to take over the reins in Los Angeles. The team is reportedly preparing to offer him a "massive, long-term contract."

Hurley, 51, has reportedly expressed interest in the NBA head coaching position despite his desire to remain in Storrs, Connecticut, and attempt to lead the Huskies to a three-peat. Last summer, he signed a six-year, $32.1 million contract with UConn, with reports indicating that another contract extension was in the works.

The Lakers had previously been linked to Redick, with The Athletic reporting that they were "zeroing in" on the former Duke star to take over as head coach. Redick also co-hosts a podcast with Lakers superstar LeBron James, adding another layer to the speculation.

However, Redick stated on "Golic & Golic" that he would address the Lakers situation after the playoffs, suggesting that he may not be in immediate contention for the position.

The Lakers parted ways with Darvin Ham after two seasons, ending his tenure with a 90-74 record and back-to-back winning seasons. In his first year, the team reached the Western Conference Finals.

With Ham's departure, the Lakers are now back to square one in their coaching search, but it appears that they have at least two candidates in mind: Hurley and Redick.

Hurley has established himself as a top coach in the college ranks, leading UConn to two national championships in 2023 and 2024. He has a proven track record of success with player development and has attracted some of the nation's top recruits.

Redick, on the other hand, has no coaching experience at the professional level. However, his extensive NBA knowledge, leadership skills, and close relationship with James could make him an intriguing candidate for the Lakers.

As the Lakers continue their search, it remains to be seen whether Hurley or Redick will ultimately land the job. However, with both candidates possessing unique strengths and qualifications, the Lakers will have a tough decision to make in determining their next head coach.