NBA Rumors: Clippers, Byron Scott Close To Deal?

Mar 1, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul (3) talks with Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Byron Scott at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Although the Los Angeles Clippers would like to finish off a trade that would give them Kevin Garnett and Doc Rivers, that possibility doesn’t seem nearly as likely as it was just a few days ago with the talks again breaking down Friday night.

The Clippers could be moving on from Rivers and may be closing in with another one of their targets – Byron Scott.

ESPN’s Chris Broussard, citing a source, says “Clippers president Andy Roeser has broached financial parameters of a potential contract with Scott’s representatives.”

Scott was the head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers the last three and broke into the league as a head coach with the New Jersey Nets from 2000-2004. Scott led the Nets to the finals in both 2002 and 2003, losing to the Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs.

After being fired by the Nets in 2004, Scott became the head coach of the New Orleans Hornets, where he coached current Clippers superstar Chris Paul. Paul and Scott remain close and according to Broussard, “golfed and dined together recently.”

Scott’s career record of 416-521 doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence, but he’s been in some difficult situations. His record is skewed because of the lack of talent the post-LeBron James Cavaliers had. He was 64-166 in Cleveland.

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