The Los Angeles Lakers appear focused on handing the reins to the front office over to Rob Pelinka, regardless of who could be had across the league. While their actions showcase this in itself in the public, their actions behind the scenes further solidify the choice.
In a piece about Pelinka on The Athletic, Bill Oram and Sam Amick revealed that the Lakers did not even reach out to Bob Myers or David Griffin.
According to sources, the Lakers never reached out to LeBron’s former general manager in Cleveland, David Griffin, before he agreed to join New Orleans. Sources also say that they haven’t reached out to the Warriors regarding general manager Bob Myers.
The article also notes that the franchise did not reach out to Jerry West, who is currently serving as an advisor with the Los Angeles Clippers. Pat Riley, a fourth name mentioned, effectively ruled himself out during a press conference this off-season.
If we were to spin this as a positive, it would be that the franchise is putting all its faith in Pelinka. He has the full backing of the front office now and, thusly, will take either the full brunt of the failure or the full praise of the success.
Pelinka could become a successful general manager. The problem is that the opportunity cost lost is going to be hard to overcome. But many accounts, Myers or West could be had if the Lakers were interested. The Lakers would have to create a title-winning team under Pelinka for the move to not bring anyone in to pay off.
Given how thorough the coaching search Pelinka has spearheaded has been in the early stages, the signs are starting positively. But, for now, the Lakers are taking a huge risk.
