10 best HC candidates

Lakers fire coach Byron Scott: Four things to know

The Los Angeles Lakers are once again in the market for a head coach. A franchise known for its stability and continued excellence has suffered through an absence of both over the past four years. Mike Brown, Mike D’Antoni and now Byron Scott, all gone in less than two full years. The decision for the Lakers to not retain Scott as coach is hard to argue with after the two worst seasons in franchise history and the clashes with the younger core going forward.

What they do next is a much trickier question.

The Lakers are getting into the coach-getting business a bit late, with Tom Thibodeau and Scott Brooks both off the market. So where do they go from here? Here’s a look at the most commonly rumored candidates.

1. Luke Walton, Warriors assistant coach: Walton checks all the boxes. Former Lakers player, so he’s part of the “family” that they value so much. Comes in with credit as the assistant of the Warriors, so he’s got a coaching title. Coached the team during their historic 24-game winning streak. Former player, so he can relate to them, younger so he can better get along with the kids on the Lakers’ roster while bringing youth and enthusiasm. Oh, and he’s a disciple of Phil Jackson, who is rumored to possibly return to the team in a year. Walton is a no brainer, if they can convince him to take the leap.

2. Ettore Messina, San Antonio Spurs assistant coach: The Lakers’ timing of letting Scott go raised an eyebrow as most point to the Warriors being up 3-1 with Walton to be available for an interview soon. However, someone who’s available now is Messina, who comes in with a wealth of international experience and what is considered a brilliant basketball mind. Think of him like David Blatt, only with a better resume and none of the attitude.

Messina would be a home run choice for the Lakers, …

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