Rob Pelinka has been a key figure in the LA Lakers' front office since 2017, stepping into the role of general manager and later being named president of basketball operations. With Lon Rosen now taking on the role of president of business operations, some might wonder about Pelinka's future with the team.
However, Rosen has made it clear that Pelinka will continue to lead basketball operations, with support from Andrew Friedman and Farhan Zaidi of the LA Dodgers. This collaboration hints at a potential blending of successful strategies between the Lakers and Dodgers.
In a recent conversation with reporters, Rosen emphasized that Pelinka, along with input from Friedman and Zaidi, will maintain control over basketball operations. Pelinka also mentioned plans to expand the front office this summer, signaling a proactive approach to strengthening the team’s management.
Adding an interesting twist, Lakers legend Magic Johnson will play a role in the front office, though without an official title. As a business partner of new Lakers owner Mark Walter, Johnson’s involvement adds a layer of historical continuity and potential influence.
Walter’s ownership of the Dodgers has been marked by consistency and success, with the team achieving back-to-back World Series titles and aiming for a third. Under his leadership, the Dodgers have enjoyed stability with Andrew Friedman as president of baseball operations and Dave Roberts as manager, resulting in a string of playoff appearances and championships.
The Lakers might be hoping to replicate this formula of stability and success. With Pelinka at the helm and JJ Redick coaching, both secured with multi-year extensions, the Lakers are poised to build towards another championship run.
The relationship between Pelinka and Magic Johnson has seen its ups and downs. Initially paired as general manager and vice president of basketball operations in 2017, their partnership ended when Johnson resigned, citing issues with Pelinka. However, after the Lakers' 2020 NBA championship win, Pelinka confirmed that he and Johnson were on good terms, even sharing a congratulatory call.
As the Lakers navigate this new era under Mark Walter’s ownership, the integration of successful strategies from the Dodgers and the collaboration of seasoned executives could pave the way for a bright future.