Cavs get Baron Davis, high pick from Clippers

INDEPENDENCE, OHIO (AP) - Byron Scott never dreamed he’d be coaching Baron Davis a second time. For a while, he wasn’t sure they’d ever speak again.

Once together in New Orleans, the hard-headed, old-school coach and volatile player clashed _ about everything. Scott and Davis rarely saw things eye to eye, leading to a messy separation that seemed irreparable. They’ve supposedly mended their relationship.

The Cavaliers better hope so.

One of the NBA’s top point guards when motivated, Davis was acquired by the rebuilding Cavaliers along with an unprotected 2011 first-round draft pick on Thursday from the Los Angeles Clippers for guard Mo Williams and forward Jamario Moon.

With the league’s worst record, the Cavs, who are trying to regain their footing without superstar LeBron James, now own two first-round and two second-round picks in June’s draft. They plan to use those selections to replenish their roster and regain relevancy.

“Our organization is excited,” Scott said. “We’re ready to get started.”

Scott and Davis are starting over.

When the two were with the Hornets, Scott and Davis butted heads. Byron didn’t like Baron and vice versa. At one point, Scott banned Davis’ personal trainer from the Hornets’ training facility. While the rest of the team stretched indoors before practice, Davis and his trainer worked outside in the parking lot.

Eventually, Scott pushed for Davis to get traded to Golden State, a move that led to the Hornets drafting All-Star Chris Paul in 2005.

Scott thought he and Davis would remain distant, but two years ago they patched up their differences in a parking lot before a preseason game. Davis told Scott he had written him a letter to apologize, but decided to say he was sorry in person.

“He wanted to apologize for some of the things that happened in New Orleans,” Scott said. “He felt that he understood now that I was just trying to make him a better basketball player. I can be tough on guys at times. I don’t think he accepted it at that particular time, but he said he’s matured.”

Scott was moved by Davis’ heartfelt gesture.

“I was very touched. I was speechless,” he said. “My wife was sitting next to me and I was like, ‘Wow, I can’t believe that he came to me and apologized for everything and said some of the things he said.’ He gave me a big hug and said, ‘I love you and thank you for everything.’ I was shocked. From that point on, the relationship has been very good.”

The Cavs, who with owner Dan Gilbert’s blessing are taking on Davis’ $29 million contract over the next two years, need that bond to remain strong.

They’re counting on Davis to come in, play well and be a good citizen. They’d also like the 31-year-old, who was ejected in the closing seconds of the Clippers‘ recent game in Cleveland, to help develop young guard Ramon Sessions.

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