I think Hurley can be successful at whatever he does -- there's no doubt he can be a great NBA coach. Would he be as happy in the NBA? I don't know. Personally, I don't think it's about the money. He strikes me as someone that isn't totally consumed with money -- and I think $8 mil or so a year at UConn for life would be more than sufficient to live the lifestyle that he and his family would want.
If he goes to the NBA, it's about the challenge and proving to everyone (including himself) that he could do it.
But he'd be giving up the chance to complete his legacy at UConn - where his name could be synonymous with the university (and college basketball) for the next decade plus. His father had chances to leave high school and he never did. His name was synonymous with St. Anthony's. And he really enjoyed helping to mold young players.
Dan can be successful in the NBA -- but I suspect he would miss everything that comes with college hoops, from the crazy fans, the Big East Tournament, March Madness...and most importantly, the players.