Yahoo Sports Senior NBA reporter Jake Fischer has analyzed the impact of the Los Angeles Lakers’ shift in focus to two-time reigning national championship coach from UConn on various head coaching candidates. The Lakers are now targeting UConn head coach Dan Hurley to lead the team from the sidelines. This news came as a surprise to the entire NBA, especially the coaching industry.
A source confirmed to Yahoo Sports on the morning of game one of the NBA finals that the Lakers have extended their search to consider Dan Hurley as a potential candidate for the head coaching position. This move has put JJ Reddick, who was originally considered a leading candidate, in a position where he could potentially remain with ESPN rather than taking on a coaching role.
The ripple effects of this sudden development will be felt throughout the coaching industry. James Borrego, another candidate for the Lakers job, is still a candidate for coaching positions in Cleveland and could also be considered by the Detroit Pistons if they decide to move on from Monty Williams. JJ Reddick, who has previously interviewed for coaching positions with the Toronto Raptors and the Charlotte Hornets, is still seen as a leading candidate for a future head coaching role in the NBA.