It took almost two weeks for the Los Angeles Lakers to decide that they didn’t want to keep Byron Scott as head coach. Two weeks. It shouldn’t have taken the Lakers two minutes to know it was time to move on from Scott.
With Tom Thibodeau and Scott Brooks both off the market, the Lakers may have waited too long for the best man for the job. That doesn’t mean they will have to settle, though. These are five possible replacements for Scott.
5. Kevin Ollie
Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY SportsKevin Ollie may not be as much of a longshot as you think. The UConn coach had to deny rumors that he met with the Lakers before they hired Scott. Ollie played in the NBA so the young players will respect him, and his Kevin Durant ties don't hurt.
4. David Blatt
David Richard-USA TODAY SportsThe massive amount of media speculation surrounding the firing of David Blatt in Cleveland centered on one idea: Blatt was the problem. That doesn't mean he won't get another chance. Blatt was hired to coach a young rebuilding team. This could be it.
3. Mark Jackson
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY SportsThe former coach of the Golden State Warriors has been waiting for another opportunity while calling games on ESPN. Jackson was let go after feuding with the higher-ups, but his players loved him and he turned around their defense. LA needs that guy.
2. Jeff Van Gundy
Jerome Miron-USA TODAY SportsJim Buss could really stick it to Phil Jackson with this one. The Zen Master's arch-nemesis has been out of coaching since 06-07. Regardless, Van Gundy's an all-time great defensive coach, and the Lakers are one of the worst on that end of the floor.
1. Luke Walton
Kyle Terada-USA TODAY SportsLuke Walton must be the team's first choice. His job with the Warriors will make the young guys on the team want to play for him, and the fact that he's a former Laker instantly makes him a top candidate.
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