Tom Thibodeau not an option for Lakers coaching job

The Los Angeles Lakers still employ Byron Scott as their head coach, but he is undoubtedly on the hot seat moving forward after helming the two worst teams in the franchise's illustrious history. While Scott is confident the Lakers will retain him heading into next season (a sentiment that is reportedly gaining momentum), if the front office decides to move on from Scott, one of the top available coaches may not be interested in the job.

Tom Thibodeau is proceeding with an interview process to become both head coach and team president of the Minnesota Timberwolves, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of the Vertical. Eric Pincus of Basketball Insiders reports that Thibodeau's desire for both positions may have led him to rule the Lakers job out as an option "some time ago."

While Marc Stein of ESPN reported later on Monday that it was Minnesota offering Thibodeau both roles rather than the coach pushing for it, if he does desire input into basketball operations, that would seem to eliminate the Lakers as an option. With Jim Buss and Mitch Kupchak already teaming to make most basketball decisions, adding another prominent voice to the mix wouldn't seem to make a lot of sense for the Lakers.

Even with Thibodeau out of the mix, the Lakers do still have some options should they part ways with Scott. Golden State Warriors assistant coach Luke Walton has reportedly passed on the New York Knicks job, leaving him as one option. Former Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Scott Brooks is also reportedly interested in being the Lakers next head coach if the job opens up.

Los Angeles still has options, but with Thibodeau looking like he'll be off the market soon, the team will have to move on from Scott sooner rather than later if they want a crack at the most desirable candidates.

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