Lakers' Front Office Future Uncertain Amid Ownership Changes
Rob Pelinka's role as the Lakers' president of basketball operations may be affected by the pending sale to new co-owners Joshua Kushner and Bob Iger, while former player Chris Paul is mentioned as a possible addition to the staff.
Rob Pelinka will continue to run the Los Angeles Lakers' basketball operations under current owner Mark Walter, but his long-term job security is unclear after the franchise is slated to be sold to co-owners Joshua Kushner and Bob Iger, according to ESPN reporter Dave McMenamin.
One agent told ESPN that Iger’s statement about retaining Jeanie Buss as governor suggests Pelinka’s position is also likely to be preserved, noting, "As long as Jeanie’s in a good position, I think Rob is in a good position." A second agent cautioned that Iger’s support for Buss included a qualifier, adding that any changes could affect Pelinka’s tenure and that the upcoming season could be pivotal for his future.
"I am curious to see how it goes the next six months," the agent said, indicating that Pelinka may have a limited window to demonstrate results.
Sources familiar with the sale indicated that recently retired point guard Chris Paul could be considered for a role within the organization. Paul’s relationship with Iger dates back to when Iger was a Clippers season ticket holder; Iger hosted a book launch for Paul in 2023, and Paul assisted Iger with clearing out his Disney office earlier this year.