TITLE: Lakers to Expand Front Office, Cite Dodgers Model; Kennard Arrives, Ayton Sidelined, Hayes Issues Apology
SLUG: lakers-front-office-expansion-kennard-trade-ayton-hayes
CONTENT:
LOS ANGELES — Lakers president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka said Saturday that the organization intends to bolster its front-office staff during the summer, aiming to mirror the depth and infrastructure of MLB’s Los Angeles Dodgers.
“There is no expense they’ll spare in being the best sort of front office in the world,” Pelinka told reporters before the team’s victory over Golden State. He added that he has been in regular contact with Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman to study the club’s draft strategy and player-development system.
Pelinka reiterated that governor Jeanie Buss will remain at the top of the basketball-operations hierarchy for the next five years, working alongside him “with Mark’s support.”
Deadline move brings Kennard
Los Angeles made one trade ahead of last week’s deadline, sending Gabe Vincent and a second-round pick to Atlanta for veteran shooter Luke Kennard. Pelinka called Kennard “the best shooter in the game” and said the club “seized” an opportunity to improve its perimeter spacing.
The executive noted that countless other scenarios were explored. “We were very aggressive, had multiple conversations, got close on some things,” Pelinka said, declining to discuss specific targets.
Head coach JJ Redick welcomed Kennard’s arrival and intends to encourage the impending free agent to fire more often. Kennard’s debut produced 10 points on 4-of-7 shooting, two rebounds and two assists in 26 minutes. “I will shoot it. I will be aggressive,” Kennard said afterward.
Injury and suspension updates
Starting center Deandre Ayton missed Saturday’s game with knee soreness and is listed as day-to-day, Redick said.
Backup center Jaxson Hayes apologized to teammates and to the Washington Wizards’ mascot, whom he shoved during pregame introductions on Jan. 30. The incident resulted in a one-game suspension. Hayes explained that the mascot had stepped on his foot while he was stretching.
The Lakers continue a six-game homestand on Monday.
Source: Hoops Rumors
