The Los Angeles Lakers may still be in the thick of the playoff race, but league insiders are already questioning what the future holds for general manager Rob Pelinka if the team fails to deliver meaningful postseason success.
Despite signing a contract extension less than a year ago, Pelinka’s job security could reportedly hinge on how the Lakers finish the season, particularly with a star-studded roster built around LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
At least one league source believes expectations inside and outside the organization have reached a critical point.
“Unless they catch fire in the second half of the year, unless they really come on and make a run in the playoffs, it’s got to be on life support, it is going to be tough to see how he survives,” according to Heavy Sports. “If they’re in the play-in again this year, with LeBron James and Luka Doncic on your roster, it’s hard to make excuses at this point. Does he have the respect of the league? Does he have a clear vision? That’s the problem.”
Deveney also reported that front office stability could be further tested depending on the direction of new owner Mark Walter and his future plan.
If Walter decides to restructure basketball operations, there is growing belief around the league that Pelinka could be vulnerable.
A defining highlight of Pelinka’s tenure remains the construction of the Lakers’ 2020 championship roster. His aggressive trade for Anthony Davis paired with key free-agent additions helped build a balanced lineup capable of dominating both offensively and defensively during their title run.
However, maintaining that level of success has proven difficult in the seasons that followed.
Since capturing the championship, Los Angeles has advanced beyond the first round only once, and roster construction has become a frequent point of criticism.
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