Rob Pelinka Outlines Major Upgrades to Lakers’ Training Center
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EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Los Angeles Lakers vice president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka said the club will overhaul its UCLA Health Training Center after the organization’s G League affiliate moves to the Coachella Valley next season.
Speaking at his annual end-of-season press conference, Pelinka explained that the South Bay Lakers’ relocation to a 10,000-seat arena will free up space at the El Segundo complex. The team plans to convert that area into a new biomechanics lab, movement lab and recovery lab, projects being designed with Lakers president of business Lon Rosen and consultants from the Los Angeles Dodgers.
“It’s a full rebuild and retool,” Pelinka said. “We’re elevating what’s here and bringing it to the next level.” Construction is scheduled to begin this offseason, with completion targeted around July’s NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.
The changes will also include court renovations and other technological enhancements. Club officials believe the expanded performance facilities will help reduce injuries and keep players on the floor throughout the season.
Front-office Expansion
Pelinka added that ownership has authorized new front-office positions. The Lakers are interviewing candidates for two assistant general manager roles, moves made possible because the NBA salary cap does not restrict spending on staff.
Mark Walter, who became the team’s majority owner earlier this year, is backing the upgrades. Walter employed a similar approach after purchasing the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2012, investing heavily in infrastructure and analytics.
Source: LakersNation.com
