Lakers Ownership Transition Keeps Rob Pelinka as GM, Jeanie Buss's Role Ensures Stability

The Los Angeles Lakers recently made headlines with their monumental $10 billion sale to Guggenheim Partners led by Mark Walter, signaling a significant shift in ownership. Despite this major transaction, the Lakers' leadership structure remains largely intact. Owner Jeanie Buss continues to serve as the team's governor under her current contract through the next decade. Her ongoing role suggests stability at the top, and consequently, Rob Pelinka is expected to maintain his position as General Manager. Recent reports indicate that Pelinka's tenure as Lakers GM is secured as long as Jeanie Buss remains in her leadership role. Her continued presence guarantees continuity within the front office, even amidst the league’s largest ownership transition to date. This arrangement is not unprecedented; Buss has historically supported Pelinka, extending his contract through 2026 and promoting him to President of Basketball Operations. His promotion in April 2025 underscored her confidence in his leadership, despite some turbulent seasons and fan criticisms. Under Pelinka's guidance, the Lakers have made bold moves, including a blockbuster trade acquiring Luka Doncic to form a star-studde...