While the NBA has been abuzz with free agent signing and player trading, the Los Angeles Lakers are looking to sign a new head coach. They have set their eyes on Byron Scott and have started negotiations with him. It would seem that Scott will likely take their offer, but he has surely considered the tough times he'll have ahead of him.

The Lakers' last coach, Mike D'Antoni, left the team in April with a 67-87 record in two seasons. While it was clear that D'Antoni's fast-paced plays made for an entertaining basketball match, their defensive tactics weren't enough to make a run for the title.

If Scott wants to get near the championship title this season, he will have to make major defensive improvements on the team. There is no doubt, he will be handicapped at shaping the team into what he needs due to the roster he was given before D'Antoni left, even with all the new additions to it.

Since Scott will be looking to bolster the defensive capabilities of the Lakers, Jeremy Lin and Steve Nash will both be defensive liabilities. It would seem that the only player coach Scott could use for defense would be Jordan Clarkson. Clarkson could be used as a wing defender because of his 6'5" height, but his true potential lies in his versatility. His defense play however, will be dampened by his lack of speed.

Rotating Xavier Henry and Wesley Johnson as small forwards could strengthen the perimeter. Kobe Bryant could also play a huge role in defensive strengthening, but with him coming off of an Achilles' injury it doesn't look like they could count him in, at least until he fully recovers.

Scott being a defense-oriented coach is a welcome sight for Lakers fans who were growing tired with D'Antoni's lack of defense strategy. Maybe this time, with Scott's direction, the Lakers might have a shot at the championship title.