BREAKING: The Los Angeles Lakers are actively collaborating with the Los Angeles Dodgers to enhance their basketball operations, aiming to replicate the Dodgers’ success as back-to-back World Series champions. Lakers’ president of basketball operations, Rob Pelinka, revealed this strategy just before their game against the Golden State Warriors on February 7, 2026.
This partnership comes on the heels of Mark Walter officially acquiring the Lakers at a staggering $10 billion valuation. Pelinka expressed excitement over the shared insights from the Dodgers, particularly from their president of baseball operations, Andrew Friedman. He stated, “It’s been great to have outside allies looking at the Dodgers and the success they’ve had.”
Pelinka underscored the importance of tapping into Friedman’s expertise, stating, “He’s incredibly smart and has done an amazing job bringing championships to the Dodgers.” This unique collaboration aims to bolster the Lakers’ strategies heading into the crucial summer period, where they plan to make notable roster improvements.
Looking ahead, Pelinka, along with Buss and Walter, are strategizing on how to leverage the Dodgers’ model, focusing on building a robust scouting and development system similar to that of the Dodgers. “We’re still going through how we’ll look in the offseason and what additions we’ll make, but there will be some positive changes,” Pelinka affirmed.
Despite recent shakeups in the Lakers’ front office, including the firing of several key staff members, Pelinka remains the principal decision-maker since Magic Johnson’s departure in 2019. He stated that the Lakers would be following the Dodgers’ lead in expanding their front office. “There is no expense they’ll spare in being the best sort of front office in the world,” he noted.
As the trade deadline approaches, Pelinka confirmed the Lakers’ aggressive stance, especially after acquiring sharpshooter Luke Kennard from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Gabe Vincent. “When you get to add the best shooter in the game, it’s a great opportunity,” he said, highlighting their intent to seize favorable opportunities.
With three future first-round picks and projected cap space nearing $50 million, the Lakers are positioning themselves for a transformative offseason. Pelinka emphasized the importance of maintaining flexibility amid the dual-apron system, which has created challenges for many teams. “We feel like creating optionality now is really a positive thing for us,” he stated.
Additionally, the Lakers are eyeing potential acquisitions in the buyout market, preparing to fill their open roster spot as they evaluate their options. “We are evaluating our open 15th roster spot and will likely fill it soon,” Pelinka confirmed.
This collaboration with the Dodgers marks a new chapter for the Lakers as they strive to reclaim their championship status and build a team capable of competing at the highest level. The urgency to adapt and evolve is palpable, and fans are eager to see how these changes unfold as the season progresses.
