January 13, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Byron Scott watches game action against the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
The search process for the next head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers continued this week with at least one more interview. According to ESPN’s Chris Broussard, former Laker player, current analyst and candidate Byron Scott had his 2nd interview on Tuesday with GM Mitch Kupchak and President of Basketball Operations Jim Buss. Scott so far, according to media reports, is the only candidate to be given a 2nd interview.
This could indicate the Lakers are ready to step up the process. With more candidates on the Lakers head coaching radar being hired by other team, or at least being given additional interviews themselves (Derek Fisher, Alvin Gentry), the Lakers might be finally narrowing down their list of candidates. Scott is a fan favorite, and seems to theoretically have the approval of Kobe Bryant, which is a feat in it’s own. Scott, ever since his first interview, has openly campaigned himself for the coveted job, referring to it as “an honor”, and that it was “the perfect for him”. He has also preached the need for defense for next year, which the Lakers ranked at the bottom of the NBA in. Obviously, Scott is saying all the right things, has the blessing of the franchise player (or so he claims), and the support of the fan-base (HIRE BYRON t-shirts flooding the streets of LA).
As has been previously reported, both by other media outlets and www.lakeshowlife.com, Scott would seem to fit all the criteria for the coaching job, should he be hired of course; the need for defense and previous head-coaching experience. With this being one of the most important hires in recent memory, the Lakers are acting wisely in taking their time with the process. While clearly nothing is set in stone, a 2nd interview is definitely s step in the right direction, at least if you’re rooting for Scott to be the next head coach. With the NBA Draft just a couple short weeks away, and free agency immediately following, logic would suggest by that time the Lakers will have a very good idea of who their coach will be.