Lakers, Pelinka agree on long-term extension

Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka inked a long-term contract extension with the organization, the team announced Friday.

The 55-year-old will now act as the team's general manager and president of basketball operations.

"For eight seasons, I have relied on Rob's vision and leadership to do what's best for the Lakers organization," L.A. governor Jeanie Buss said in a statement, courtesy of The Athletic's Jovan Buha. "I value his partnership and professionalism and believe in his ability to deliver championship-caliber basketball for Los Angeles and Lakers fans everywhere."

Pelinka was hired as the organization's general manager in 2017 and was responsible for a number of key moves, including the free-agent signing of LeBron James in 2018 and the Anthony Davis trade in 2019.

Los Angeles won the 2020 NBA title, and he was promoted to assistant vice president of basketball operations and general manager that same year.

Pelinka can be credited with the blockbuster deal that brought in Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks at this season's trade deadline.

Prior to joining the Lakers' front office, Pelinka worked as a sports agent and, most notably, managed Hall of Famer and Lakers legend Kobe Bryant.

L.A. will take on the Minnesota Timberwolves in the opening round of the NBA playoffs. The Lakers secured the No. 3 seed in the West with a 50-win campaign.

Game 1 is scheduled for Saturday at 8:30 p.m. ET.