One NBA team has secured its front office’s future as it prepares for a playoff run.
The Los Angeles Lakers made a big decision ahead of their playoff opener and secured their general manager for the long haul. On Friday, the Lakers announced that they have extended Rob Pelinka, the team’s general manager and president of basketball operations.
While Pelinka has been criticised throughout his time with the Lakers, he has undeniably been one of the best in the league. His ability to make big moves and keep one of sports’ most storied franchises in the spotlight has been on display in his tenure. Lakers governor Jeanie Buss has been with the team for the entirety of Pelinka’s tenure and clearly appreciates the job he has done.
“For eight seasons, I have relied on Rob’s vision and leadership to do what’s best for the Lakers organization,” Buss said. “I value his partnership and professionalism and believe in his ability to deliver championship-caliber basketball for Los Angeles and Lakers fans everywhere.”
Pelinka began his time with the Lakers front office in 2017 and has made no shortage of league-altering moves since his arrival. Under his leadership, the Lakers have added LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Luka Doncic, while also acquiring numerous other notable players.
This season will mark the Lakers’ fifth playoff appearance under Pelinka and was their second 50-win season in that period, with the other coming in 2020, when the Lakers won the NBA title. While Pelinka might not have built a roster ready to win an NBA title this season, he has set the team up for success for years to come.
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His blockbuster addition of Doncic in the middle of the season was one of the most shocking moves in league history and has put the Lakers in a position to contend for many years. With Pelinka set to be in charge for the foreseeable future, it would be no surprise if the purple and gold are in the NBA Finals again soon.
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