Cavaliers Fire Byron Scott

[RealGM Wiretap]

The Cleveland Cavaliers have fired Byron Scott after three seasons.

Scott had a 66-166 record with the Cavaliers as the franchise rebuilt following the departure of LeBron James.

Scott took the job before James made his decision to sign with the Miami Heat. Tom Izzo was the other leading candidate for the job, but he decided to remain at Michigan State.

"I have tremendous respect for Byron professionally and a great deal of admiration for him personally," said Chris Grant. "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," Cavs general manger Chris Grant said in a statement. "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."

Via Jeff Zillgitt, Sam Amick/USA Today

[TV63]

Cav fans really liked Bryon Scott especailly in the darkest chapter when Lebron left that gigantic hole. He developed young players like Irving, Waiters, Tristan Thompson and Zeller into Rising All Stars. And the truth be known; he opened the door to Varejao to score more and make those impressive double doubles before his injuries. Who knew?? (Mike Brown sure didn't think to try that) Scott was likeable and very positive. But and there is a 'But" The Big Elephant called "DEFENSE" never stepped on the stage in his long 3 years. And this my friends was more of a demise to the CAVS than the multitude of injuries. Organization didn't expect playoffs this year but winning 30 games wasn't a far expectation. And it's hard not to ask that question, "Could his replacement do worse or better?" It's highly unlikely Cavs would do worse than 24 wins next year. They did give him 3 years and by all accounts; it's more than what any other NBA team would give.