It's only been one week since the final game of Kobe Bryant‘s career, and while some people continue to celebrate the Mamba, the focus of many Lakers fans is back on one of the biggest subplots of the season: should the franchise keep Byron Scott moving forward?
Throughout his tenure, Scott's methods have been criticized by viewers and pundits alike, questioning if he's the best man available with regards to developing their young core. His relationships with D'Angelo Russell and Julius Randle have been tenuous, at best.
While other teams like the Timberwolves are already making their big splashes on the coaching market, the Lakers need to decide if they want in on the game. That decision appears to be looming.
According to Marc Stein of ESPN, the Purple & Gold's management is currently deliberating on whether they should keep Scott, or let him go.
RELATED: Byron Scott Brushes Off Criticism, Knows He’s ‘A Lot Smarter’ at Basketball Than Fans
To be fair, Scott's resources have been limited during his time as the Lakers' head coach, and if their first round pick falls out of the top three in the lottery, they'll lose it to the Philadelphia 76ers.
However, it's important to create a strong work ethic as well as a definitive culture for young players and bring them along in the meantime. If they don't believe Scott is capable of doing so, they need to look elsewhere.
Letting Scott go would be costly, as his contract runs through next season with a team option for the year after that. Considering the Lakers have some of the highest revenues in the league, this shouldn't be too large of a concern.
One interesting theory is that the Lakers could keep Scott through next season, then decline his team option while simultaneously bringing back Knicks president Phil Jackson to run their basketball operations and allow him to pick the coach he wants afterward.
However, if they don't have confidence in Scott bringing the kids along, there's no time to waste; move on.
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