New Lakers president Lon Rosen confirms Pelinka will continue in his position.
LOS ANGELES — Newly appointed Lakers president of business operations Lon Rosen perceives more commonalities than differences between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Lakers organizations, as both are prominent figures in the L.A. sports landscape.
“The Lakers are a highly successful organization,” Rosen stated on Tuesday while addressing a small group of reporters, marking his first public comments since taking on the new role last week. “Let’s be honest, there was a transaction executed a couple of months ago for an unprecedented amount of money.”
“Clearly, things must be going well. … As I sit here today, it’s evident that things will progress. Will they change? I’m uncertain what change entails now because this is a solid franchise.”
New Lakers owner Mark Walter, who acquired the franchise at a $10 billion valuation in October, selected Rosen to transition from his position with the back-to-back World Series champion Dodgers, succeeding outgoing Lakers president of business operations, Tim Harris.
Rosen, 67, whose initial role after college was as an intern for the Lakers before becoming Earvin “Magic” Johnson’s longtime agent and later serving as executive vice president and chief marketing officer for the Dodgers since 2012, aims to provide stability as he becomes the first prominent figure to connect owner Walter’s two franchises.
As the Lakers approach a pivotal offseason with significant roster decisions to make in order to support 26-year-old superstar Luka Doncic with championship-caliber talent, Rosen clarified that Lakers president of basketball operations and general manager, Rob Pelinka, will retain his position — and will be supported by Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman and Dodgers special advisor Farhan Zaidi.
“I oversee the business side, while Rob is empowered to carry out his responsibilities,” Rosen explained. “Andrew Friedman and Farhan Zaidi will assist Rob to some extent. This creates a deeper bench, which I believe Rob values. It is indeed unique. They possess skills that can be beneficial here, and that’s our perspective.”
“I have a strong rapport with Rob. I’ve known Rob Pelinka since he represented Kobe [Bryant]. I met him many years ago.”
Rosen was also inquired about Johnson, the Lakers icon and former president of basketball operations who unexpectedly resigned from his position alongside Pelinka at the conclusion of the 2018-19 season.
“Earvin is one of the most extraordinary individuals I’ve encountered in my life, and he is one of my closest friends,” Rosen remarked. “I’ve known him since we were both 19. Earvin is involved in various ventures. He owns football teams, baseball teams, soccer teams, insurance companies, and much more. He will always have some level of involvement with all the teams, but he will not engage in day-to-day operations. This will remain unchanged since his departure from the Lakers.”
“Of course, he is a passionate supporter of the Lakers, but he won’t be saying, ‘Hey Rob, go sign this player. Do that.’ He will always be connected to all the teams he is involved with, but he will not have daily operational involvement, at all. He is a devoted Laker fan and will continue to be one. That is not a disadvantage.”
Rosen then highlighted Johnson’s role in hosting the halftime ceremony honoring Pat Riley’s statue, along with the “Showtime” Lakers, during Sunday’s L.A.-Boston Celtics game as an illustration of Johnson’s ongoing presence.
He also affirmed the continuation of two longstanding business relationships for the Lakers: their home court will remain Crypto.com Arena, and their television partnership will continue with Spectrum SportsNet.
“It’s an excellent venue,” Rosen stated regarding the former Staples Center, which opened in 1999. “It’s very functional. I suppose the fans appreciate it, as they come here, sell it out, enjoy the atmosphere, savor the food, and park their cars — so it’s a highly efficient building.”
Regarding Spectrum SportsNet, their regional sports network partner since 2012: “I have a rather unique perspective, as I work with two teams that both collaborate with Spectrum. Spectrum is a fantastic partner.”
Rosen mentioned that he will still have some responsibilities with the Dodgers, but the “majority” of his time will be dedicated to the Lakers moving forward.
He also indicated that Doncic can expand the Lakers’ global presence, similar to how Shohei Ohtani has for the Dodgers.
“When we signed Shohei Ohtani, it significantly altered our business model,” Rosen noted. “I believe there is substantial growth potential for the Lakers internationally … And having Luka Doncic certainly helps. He is one of the most popular players globally, and we aim to leverage his influence to expand our reach.”
