LOS ANGELES (AP) — Magic Johnson wants the Los Angeles Lakers to lose for their own good.

Coach Byron Scott thinks they are better off learning how to win.

Johnson declared Tuesday that the Lakers should "lose every game" to get a high draft pick. The Hall of Famer made his comments at a promotional appearance in New York.

A few hours later, Scott responded to his former Lakers backcourt mate by stressing the importance of establishing a winning climate. Scott says tanking wouldn't be entertained by the Lakers, whose 5-16 record was second-worst in the Western Conference entering their home game against Sacramento.

Scott mostly laughed off the latest pointed comments by Johnson, his good friend. Johnson was viciously critical of former Lakers coach Mike D'Antoni in the previous two seasons.

(© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)