The Los Angeles Lakers are keeping General Manager Rob Pelinka around with a new contract and additional title. The team announced Friday that Pelinka will assume the role of President of Basketball Operations in addition to his current standing as GM.
The Los Angeles Lakers have signed Rob Pelinka to a contract extension, with his new title as president of basketball operations along with general manager, sources tell ESPN. Lakers leadership is now signed long-term with Pelinka and coach JJ Redick. pic.twitter.com/BCpZNgxCzE
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 18, 2025
Lakers Extend, Promote Rob Pelinka
A Well-Deserved Extension
In a press release, Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss praised Pelinka for his leadership and vision in a role he took on in 2017.
“For eight seasons, I have relied on Rob’s vision and leadership to do what’s best for the Lakers organization,” she said. “I value his partnership and professionalism and believe in his ability to deliver championship-caliber basketball for Los Angeles and Lakers fans everywhere.”
Despite some past hiccups, Pelinka has shown he’s the right executive to continually lead the Lakers into the future, especially one headlined by Luka Doncic and LeBron James. His past acquisition of Anthony Davis trade propelled the Lakers toward their 17th title, and bold risks like the Doncic trade proved his willingness to shake up the roster to reach that level of excellence once more.
No matter how the 2025 playoffs shake out, Pelinka will have yet another opportunity to maximize LA’s current title window with successful offseason moves. James currently has a $52.6 million player option on the table, though he could decline it and re-sign on a team-friendly contract. If he does so, it’s up to the seasoned executive to bring in talented rotation players that fit the current iteration of the Lakers.
The Lakers’ commitment to Pelinka is laudable and a positive step in the right direction, particularly for a franchise that prides itself on past excellence. Fans no longer need to question whether he is still the right man to lead the Lakers, but can only hope his future moves lead to sustained excellence for the purple and gold.
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