Former Laker Happy Dan Hurley Turned Los Angeles Down

The Los Angeles Lakers' head-coaching saga got even spicier this week, as the team's pursuit of UConn Dan Hurley came to a screeching halt following his decision to stick with the Huskies. Many are disappointed the back-to-back national champ passed on taking the Lakers job considering the leadership and player development skills he's displayed during his strong run in the college ranks.

However, it turns out it's not just UConn alumni who are happy Hurley isn't departing for Los Angeles.

Former Lakers guard JR Smith relayed his thoughts on the situation on Twitter/X. In a video posted to his account, Smith noted he felt Hurley had it too good with the Huskies to leave. Additionally, he threw some shade at the Lakers, saying, "looking at what the Lakers got going on right now, and seeing their past situations, I just know it would be a better fit for him to stay where he was at."

In a follow-up tweet, Smith added that Hurley "has an opportunity to go down as one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history."

Smith has a close connection to Hurley, who coached him in high school at St. Benedict's in New Jersey, so he's got skin in the game on both sides here as an ex-LA player as well. Yet it seems the former high flyer is way more focused on Hurley's well-being here than the Lakers, who are in desperate need of a true leader on the bench.

It's a bit of a surprise to see Smith so outspoken against Los Angeles hiring Hurley. He also tweeted a warning to his former coach while the Lakers' pursuit ramped up.

Suffice it to say, Smith doesn't bleed purple and gold despite helping the franchise capture its 17th Finals in 2020.

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