Los Angeles Lakers: Rob Pelinka’s Promotion is a Life Lesson

Players like Anthony Davis are not available in trades often, so when he became available 29 other teams were trying to figure out ways to trade for him. Add the fact that AD openly preferred your team, and things become tougher – not easier. Things got tougher for Rob Pelinka and the Los Angeles Lakers because the New Orleans Pelicans, knowing Davis’s preference, could really milk the situation to maximum effect.

All of the above was happening with the fallout from Magic Johnson’s resignation. Most executives would not survive under the weight of such accusations and subsequent reports, especially after missing the playoffs with LeBron James on your team.

With the above going against Pelinka, he stood steadfast and got promoted from Lakers general manager to vice president of basketball operations.

When the 2019-20 season was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Los Angeles Lakers sported the best record in the Western Conference (49-14) by 5.5 games.

That would not have been possible without the trade for Anthony Davis, who is averaging over 26 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists along with 2.5 blocks and 1.5 steals. How did Rob Pelinka not only survive, but made the Lakers and himself winners?

Below are “Six Points to Ponder” in examining Rob Pelinka’s path to promotion and how they helped to put the Los Angeles Lakers in championship contention.

1) Distractions will come. Do damage control and defend yourself if need be.

2) Don’t waste time taking advantage of the greatness (LeBron James).

3) Make necessary sacrifices. Yes, Brandon Ingram is having an All-Star type season and Lonzo Ball is looking much improved, but they (and those draft picks) do not move the needle towards present-day title contention like Anthony Davis next to LeBron James.

4) Be respected by people of influence (Owner Jeanie Buss, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Kobe Bryant, etc.).

5) Get past the point that people, even peers, will not like you.

6) As Rob Pelinka’s ultimate goal is winning the NBA championship – keep the focus on your ultimate goal.

Besides Rob Pelinka, who doesn’t want a promotion? Who in Laker Land doesn’t want Lakers to regain championship glory of dynasties past?

Rob Pelinka’s path to promotion could very well lead the Los Angeles Lakers to an NBA championship.