LA Lakers sends coach Scott packing

"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 organization to make a change at this time," said general manager Mitch Kupchak.

Los Angeles Lakers' Kobe Bryant hugs coach Byron Scott as he comes out of the NBA basketball game during the second half in Bryant's last match.

Los Angeles Lakers has decided to part ways with head coach Byron Scott, who led the NBA club to a franchise worst 17-65 record in Kobe Bryant's final season.

The Lakers announced on Sunday night that it would not pick up the option on Scott's contract for the 2016-17 season.

"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 organization to make a change at this time," said general manager Mitch Kupchak.

Kupchak said the search for a new coach would begin immediately.

Scott guided the Lakers through the last two years of Bryant's all-star career which ended with a 60-point performance against the Utah Jazz on April 13.

But Scott won just 38 games in his two years, finishing with the worst record (38-126) of all the Lakers coaches who spent at least two seasons at the helm of the once proud franchise that is now the league's doormat.