Lakers affirm Pelinka will stay in charge of basketball operations
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The Los Angeles Lakers formally introduced new president of business operations Lon Rosen on Tuesday, and the longtime Los Angeles Dodgers executive said Rob Pelinka will continue to steer the club’s basketball department.
“I just run the business side; Rob’s empowered to do what he does,” Rosen told reporters, adding that Dodgers executives Andrew Friedman and Farhan Zaidi will lend occasional support. “It gives you a deeper bench, and I think Rob appreciates that.”
League observers had wondered whether majority owner Mark Walter, who assumed controlling interest last year, might overhaul the front office. Rosen’s comments underscored that Pelinka remains president of basketball operations and general manager, roles he has held since 2019 and 2017, respectively. Pelinka received a promotion to president in spring 2025, along with a contract extension.
Rosen, who managed Magic Johnson’s career before joining the Dodgers in 2012, said the Hall of Famer will not reclaim a day-to-day position with the franchise. “He’s involved with all types of things … but he is not going to have a day-to-day involvement,” Rosen noted.
Pelinka recently indicated the Lakers plan to expand their basketball operations staff, mirroring the Dodgers’ front-office depth. He emphasized that key decisions will remain with himself, governor Jeanie Buss and Walter—an arrangement Rosen echoed Tuesday.
The Lakers enter a pivotal 2026 offseason with potential cap space, up to three tradable first-round picks, Austin Reaves eligible for a new deal and LeBron James’ contract set to expire. James has not yet revealed whether he will continue playing or remain with the team.
Source: Hoops Rumors
