The Los Angeles Lakers have experienced constant change on the sidelines since LeBron James arrived in 2018, cycling through multiple head coaches in search of long-term stability.

Following the dismissal of Darvin Ham in 2024, the franchise set its sights on one of the most accomplished names in college basketball: Dan Hurley of UConn Huskies.

Hurley, fresh off back-to-back national championships, quickly became the Lakers’ top target.

The organization reportedly offered him a massive six-year, $70 million contract to take over a roster led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis. At the time, it seemed like a potential blockbuster move that could reshape the franchise’s future.

Why Dan Hurley Turned Down the Lakers

Despite the financial incentive and the opportunity to coach one of the NBA’s most iconic teams, Hurley ultimately declined the offer. Instead, he chose to remain at UConn — a decision that, as he later revealed, was heavily influenced by advice from legendary Tom Izzo of Michigan State Spartans.

Speaking on The Dan Patrick Show, Hurley explained that Izzo played a key role in helping him evaluate the pros and cons of leaving college basketball for the NBA. Izzo, who has himself received NBA interest from teams like the Atlanta Hawks and Cleveland Cavaliers in the past, offered a perspective shaped by decades of experience.

Hurley shared that Izzo encouraged him to seriously consider the move but also reminded him of the unique position he held within college basketball. At a time when the NCAA landscape is rapidly evolving — with NIL deals, transfer portal activity, and shifting regulations — Hurley’s presence as a passionate, program-building coach carries significant value.

Izzo echoed that sentiment publicly, noting that while the NBA opportunity was appealing, losing Hurley would be a blow to the college game. He emphasized Hurley’s commitment to player development and the integrity of the sport — qualities that are increasingly rare in a changing environment.

Choosing Legacy Over the NBA

In the end, Hurley opted for continuity over uncertainty. Rather than making the leap to the NBA, he signed a six-year, $50 million extension to remain with UConn. While the Lakers’ offer was financially larger, Hurley prioritized legacy, control, and the opportunity to continue building a dominant college program.

That decision has continued to define his coaching trajectory. Although UConn experienced a slight dip during the 2024–25 season, the program quickly rebounded. The Huskies returned to elite form, finishing the regular season with an impressive 32–5 record and earning a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament.

Their deep postseason run — including a high-profile matchup against the Duke Blue Devils in the Elite Eight — further reinforced Hurley’s status as one of the premier coaches in the sport. A third national championship in four years would cement his run as one of the most dominant stretches in modern college basketball history.

Lakers Pivot to JJ Redick

After Hurley declined the offer, the Lakers quickly shifted direction, hiring former NBA sharpshooter JJ Redick as head coach. The move was initially met with skepticism, as Redick had no prior head coaching experience at any level.

However, the early results have been encouraging. In his first season, Redick guided the Lakers to a 50–32 record, though their playoff run ended in the first round against the Minnesota Timberwolves. While the exit raised questions, it also provided a foundation for growth.

The following season brought even more intrigue. In a stunning blockbuster move, the Lakers traded Anthony Davis for Luka Dončić — a deal widely considered one of the most shocking in recent NBA history. The acquisition of Dončić dramatically reshaped the team’s identity and long-term outlook.

A New-Look Lakers Contender

With Dončić now leading the charge alongside LeBron James and emerging guard Austin Reaves, the Lakers have found new momentum. After a slow start to the 2025–26 season, the team caught fire in March, climbing to a 48–26 record and securing the third seed in the Western Conference.

Redick, now more comfortable in his role, has drawn praise for his offensive schemes and ability to maximize his roster’s strengths. Dončić’s MVP-caliber performances have been the driving force, but the team’s overall cohesion has noticeably improved.

While several teams still enter the playoffs with better championship odds, the Lakers have firmly positioned themselves as legitimate contenders. Their blend of superstar talent and improved coaching stability gives them a realistic shot at a deep postseason run.

What If Hurley Had Said Yes?

The question still lingers: what would the Lakers look like today if Hurley had accepted the job?

His intense coaching style, proven track record, and ability to develop talent might have brought a different identity to Los Angeles. At the same time, the transition from college to the NBA is never guaranteed, and success at one level does not always translate to another.

In hindsight, both sides may have landed in the right place. Hurley continues to build a powerhouse at UConn, while the Lakers appear to have found a promising leader in Redick.

Final Thoughts

Dan Hurley’s decision to turn down the Lakers’ $70 million offer highlights the complexity of modern coaching choices. It wasn’t simply about money or prestige — it was about fit, timing, and long-term vision.

Guided in part by Tom Izzo’s advice, Hurley chose to stay where he could maintain control and continue shaping a legacy. Meanwhile, the Lakers adapted, took a risk on JJ Redick, and may have found the stability they’ve been searching for since LeBron James first arrived.

As both paths continue to unfold, this decision stands as one of the most fascinating “what-if” moments in recent basketball history — one that could have changed the direction of two major programs in very different ways.