Lakers GM Rob Pelinka Leaned on Dodgers’ Andrew Friedman During Summer Free Agency
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Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka turned to Los Angeles Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman for guidance throughout the 2025 NBA free-agency period, according to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne.
The collaboration began after Dodgers principal owner Mark Walter reached an agreement last summer to acquire the Buss family’s majority stake in the Lakers. Once the purchase process started, Pelinka and other Lakers executives were granted access to the same organizational resources available to the Dodgers, Shelburne reported.
Direct line to a seasoned executive
Shelburne said Pelinka has used Friedman as “a confidant” and “sounding board” while evaluating roster moves. The relationship reportedly has been active “all summer long” as the Lakers weighed free-agency decisions.
Friedman, widely regarded as one of Major League Baseball’s top executives, has led the Dodgers to consistent postseason success since joining the franchise in 2014. Pelinka’s conversations with him have provided insight into Walter’s management style and offered an external perspective on basketball operations.
Growing ties between marquee franchises
The Dodgers and Lakers have long shared a prominent place in Southern California’s sports landscape, a connection that deepened when Lakers icon Magic Johnson became a minority Dodgers owner in 2012. Walter’s pending purchase further integrates the two brands, and Shelburne expects “a nice melding” over the next few years.
Lakers salute Dodgers’ championship
The cross-sport camaraderie was on display earlier this season when the Lakers honored the Dodgers’ second consecutive World Series title during a home game against the San Antonio Spurs. Dodgers stars Mookie Betts and Will Smith were among the players recognized on the Crypto.com Arena floor.
Walter’s bid to replicate the Dodgers’ baseball success on the hardwood continues as both franchises head into pivotal off-seasons under shared ownership.
Source: Lakers Nation
