Byron Scott says LeBron James deserves a “B” for his Los Angeles Lakers run, expected more championships, and believes a statue outside Crypto.com Arena should not happen.
Byron Scott didn’t mince words when he sized up LeBron James’ time with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Speaking to TMZ Sports, the former Showtime Lakers star said he’s giving James a “B” grade for his stint in Purple and Gold. Scott’s reaction came as he reflected on the past eight seasons, and on the news that James would be playing elsewhere for his 24th season in the NBA.
Scott called the change a win for both sides. Still, his grade carried a clear message: when he looked at what LeBron was bringing to the franchise, Scott said he expected multiple championships—not just the one James secured in 2020.
His memory of the Lakers’ pivot is tied to the moment the team traded for Luka Doncic. Scott said that once the Lake Show made that move. “the wheels were in motion” to move on from the LeBron era. In his view. the Lakers could now build around the younger Slovenian superstar. using the money that “would’ve spent to keep James.”.
Even as he points to what he believes the Lakers could have done differently, Scott still believes LeBron can play at a high level. He added that Cleveland would be a great place for the King to end his Hall of Fame career.
Then there’s the matter of the Lakers’ biggest public honor: a statue. A long debate has been swirling over whether James should get a statue outside Crypto.com Arena, and Scott made his stance just as direct—LeBron “should NOT” be given one.
For Scott, the story isn’t just about numbers or awards. It’s about expectations, timing, and what the Lakers did with the leverage of the LeBron era—before and after the pivot to Luka Doncic.
Byron Scott LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Luka Doncic Crypto.com Arena statue NBA 24th season Hall of Fame career