Lakers hire Byron Scott as new head coach

The Los Angeles Lakers have hired Byron Scott as their new head coach, reports ESPN's Ramona Shelburne. Scott underwent several interviews with the Lakers since former head coach Mike D'Antoni resigned, and the front office has made the decision with the NBA Draft and initial free agency period completed. The contract is worth $17 million over four years, and the Lakers hold a team option for the final year, according to Shelburne.

Scott was vocal in his desire to coach the Lakers throughout the process, stating in interviews that he is a great fit for the team. He has 12 seasons of head-coaching experiencing, featuring stints with the New Jersey Nets, New Orleans Hornets and Cleveland Cavaliers. Scott finished just four of his 10 full seasons head coaching with a winning record and was fired mid-season by both the Nets and Hornets. His teams have made the playoffs four times, last reaching the postseason with the 2008-2009 Hornets.

His all-time coaching record is 416-521 through 937 games.

The Lakers have built up their roster following decisions from LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony, giving them a clearer direction. Scott met with Los Angeles for a third interview on Wednesday and discussed the current personnel, but did not receive a formal offer. The sides were reportedly finalizing negotiations after the team offered Scott the position Thursday evening.

Scott, a former Laker who grew up in Inglewood, Calif., will now have an opportunity to coach a Lakers team reeling following a franchise-worst season.