Lakers Announce Contract Extension, New Title For GM Rob Pelinka

The Los Angeles Lakers have signed general manager Rob Pelinka to a multiyear contract extension and gave him the title of president of basketball operations, the team announced.

A change in title generally comes with a raise for NBA front-office types, and that is certainly the case for Pelinka.

“Pelinka hired JJ Redick as the Lakers’ new coach last offseason, and made the signature Luka Doncic acquisition in February,” ESPN’s Shams Charania wrote. “The Lakers are set up with a face of the franchise for the next 10 years, flexibility and assets this upcoming offseason, and organizational alignment.”

Los Angeles finished third in the Western Conference standings, rising through the ranks after the trade with the Dallas Mavericks for Doncic. The Lakers own the No. 3 seed entering the playoffs and will face the sixth-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round. Game 1 is scheduled for Saturday night in LA. 

Pelinka was hired as GM in 2017, along with Magic Johnson. But Johnson parted ways with the organization in 2019, leaving Pelinka to assume the role as top decision-maker.

“For eight seasons, I have relied on Rob’s vision and leadership to do what’s best for the Lakers organization,” said team owner Jeanie Buss. “I value his partnership and professionalism and believe in his ability to deliver championship-caliber basketball for Los Angeles and Lakers fans everywhere.”  

Before joining the Lakers, Pelinka served as an NBA agent — with his list of clients including the likes of late superstar Kobe Bryant, as well as James Harden and Andre Iguodala.