Lon Rosen assumes the business leadership of the Los Angeles Lakers: Pelinka confirmed and talk about Doncic

The new era at the Los Angeles Lakers is already underway. Lon Rosen, recently appointed president of business operations, stated in his first public remarks that there are more similarities than differences between the Lakers and the Los Angeles Dodgers, the two major sports references in the L.A. market. He speaks of key figures like Rob Pelinka and Luka Doncic.

“I believe the Lakers are a truly successful group,” explained Rosen. “Just a few months ago, a deal was closed for the highest figure ever seen. That means things are being done right.”

The new owner, Mark Walter, acquired the franchise with a valuation of 10 billion dollars in October and chose Rosen to replace Tim Harris at the helm of the business area. Thus, Rosen leaves his executive position at the Dodgers —current World Series champions— to take on the challenge in the NBA.

At 67 years old, Rosen returns to the organization where he began his professional career as an intern after college. He later served as an agent for years for Magic Johnson and, since 2012, he held the positions of executive vice president and marketing director at the Dodgers. Now, he becomes the first high-profile executive to directly connect the structures of the two franchises under Walter's umbrella.

Continuity in the sports area

Rosen made it clear that his role will focus exclusively on the business area and that Rob Pelinka will continue to lead the sporting decisions as president of basketball operations and general manager.

Additionally, he explained that Pelinka will have the support of two figures from the Dodgers: Andrew Friedman and Farhan Zaidi, who will contribute their strategic expertise. “I take care of the business side. Rob is qualified to do his job. Having more resources always helps,” Rosen pointed out.

The new executive also highlighted his personal relationship with Pelinka, whom he has known since the time he represented Kobe Bryant.

Magic Johnson's role

Asked about Magic Johnson's role, Rosen clarified that the L.A. legend will not have daily involvement in management, as has been the case since he stepped down from his position in 2019. However, he emphasized that his presence and emotional connection with the franchise remain intact.

Johnson recently took part in the tribute to Pat Riley and the Lakers’ “Showtime” during the game against the Boston Celtics, a testament to his constant closeness with the team.

Stability in facilities and television

Rosen also endorsed the continuity of two structural pillars: the arena and the television deal. The Lakers will continue playing at the Crypto.com Arena, opened in 1999, which he described as a “functional and efficient” venue.

Regarding regional broadcasting, he reaffirmed the partnership with Spectrum SportsNet, the team's television partner since 2012. “It’s a great partner,” he stated, emphasizing that his experience with both franchises provides him with a privileged view of the agreement.

Doncic and the World

With the Lakers facing a crucial summer to surround their 26-year-old star, Luka Doncic, Rosen focused on the global growth of the brand. He compared its potential impact to the arrival of Shohei Ohtani at the Dodgers.

“When we signed Ohtani, the business model changed completely,” he explained. “There is immense international growth potential for the Lakers. And having Luka Doncic helps a lot. He is one of the most popular players in the world, and we want to capitalize on that momentum.”

Rosen revealed that, although he will maintain certain responsibilities with the Dodgers, he will dedicate the majority of his time to the Lakers in this new phase, marked by institutional stability and global expansion ambitions.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Lon Rosen asume el mando empresarial de Los Angeles Lakers: confirman a Pelinka y hablan de Doncic