(recasts after Lakers make official announcement)
* Scott lasted two seasons, compiled 38-126 overall record
* Lakers face long rebuild after Bryant's retirement
* Favoured to land high-ranking pick in upcoming draft
April 25 (Reuters) - The Los Angeles Lakers fired coach
Byron Scott on Sunday after he oversaw the two worst seasons in
franchise history, clearing the way for a continued rebuild
after the retirement of all-time great Kobe Bryant.
"We would like to thank Byron for his hard work, dedication
and loyalty over the last two years, but have decided it is in
the best interest of the organisation to make a change at this
time," General Manager Mitch Kupchak said in a statement.
The search for a replacement will begin immediately with
former player and now Golden State Warriors assistant Luke
Walton regarded as top of the list of possible contenders.
Despite being the NBA's second most successful franchise
with 16 championships to their name, the Lakers are facing a
sustained period of rebuilding after a dismal 17-65 campaign in
the recently completed 2015-16 regular season.
Scott's first season in charge was only marginally better,
with the Lakers compiling a 21-61 record, their worst ever until
this year.
Having not been near the playoffs since the Spurs swept them
out of the opening round in 2012-13 and with Bryant retiring
after his 60-point farewell performance earlier this month, the
Lakers lack the star power they have generally commanded.
With a high-end celebrity laced fan base expecting results,
continued futility was always going to put pressure on Scott to
retain his job.
All-Star centers Dwight Howard and Pau Gasol departed the
team for less money over the last few seasons, leaving early
draft picks Julius Randle and D'Angelo Russell carrying the
burden as the future of the team.
Due to their woeful record, the Lakers have the second best
odds of landing the top pick in the upcoming draft lottery and
they are also expected to be very active in the free agency
market.