The Cleveland Cavaliers have decided to part ways with head coach Byron Scott after a 24-58 season and a record of 64-166 overall. While some may feel that the firing was justified others feel that Scott was not given a fair shot because of the lack of talent on the roster and a myriad of injuries to important players such as Anderson Varejao and Kyrie Irving. Here is what the Cavs’ General Manager Chris Grant had to say:
“I have tremendous respect for Byron professionally and a great deal of admiration for him personally. At the same time, it is critical for where we are as a team to ensure that we capitalize on every opportunity for development and success and we have fallen short of that on the court,” said Grant. “I believe we needed to make this change in order to get to a better position to achieve our goals. I know I speak on behalf of the entire Cavs organization and the Cleveland community, in thanking Byron for his three years here and his hard work and many contributions on and off the court. We wish Bryon and his wife, Anita, the best.”
And here is a statement from Byron Scott:
“I want to thank Chris Grant, Dan Gilbert and the Cavaliers organization for the opportunity I had to coach this team the last three seasons,” said Scott. “Anita and I have enjoyed our time here in Cleveland and greatly appreciate the support we received from this special community and the many friendships we developed. I am certainly proud of the progress that many of our players have made and greatly appreciate the dedication of my coaches and our team in our efforts to attain the success we all desired.”
Scott recently stated that he was sure he would be back to coach the Cavs next season, however management had other plans. The Cavs head into the offseason with two first and second round draft picks plus loads of cap room to help improve the team. The Cavs have struggled mightily since the departure of Lebron James and hope to turn around their dismal record of recent seasons. The question now remains, who will lead this young Cavalier team back to respectability?
Tell us what you think of the firing:
story first reported by Jason Lloyd of the Akron Beacon Journal
