The Los Angeles Lakers made waves on Tuesday morning by making a decision that seemed to be destined for a long time. The storied franchise turned back time and hired Magic Johnson as its new President of Basketball Operations, removing Jim Buss and Mitch Kupchak from their current roles.
This leaves the Lakers without an official general manager only two days before the NBA trade deadline. The Lakers were rumored to be active at the annual event, especially in regards to trading veteran sixth man Lou Williams.
All of that is at risk with new management. The Lakers have reportedly set their sights on Rob Pelinka as the future GM. Pelinka is currently a player agent and Lakers’ fans will remember him as Kobe Bryant’s representation.
But another name is emerging, not as the future GM, but as a prominent voice within the Lakers’ front office. According to The Vertical’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Ryan West is considered as a key member of the new regime:
Lakers assistant general manager Ryan West has a strong relationship and history with Pelinka, and would likely be considered a significant part of a new front-office regime, league sources said.
West, the son of former Lakers legend Jerry West, has been a member of the Lakers’ front office for years, now. He has been instrumental in the team’s rebuild, especially as it pertains to the draft.
Magic just named Ryan West and said “thank God we have a great scouting team”. Doesn’t sound like they’re going anywhere.
— Anthony F. Irwin (@AnthonyIrwinLA) February 21, 2017
West’s inclusion in the new front office is huge for multiple reasons. First, it gives them someone with experience who can help ease the transition for Johnson and Pelinka.
Second, it gives the Lakers someone who has been adept at using analytics in analyzing players, something that has been a huge criticism against the team in years past. Even Johnson has noted the importance:
Magic con't on analytics: "I'm a big believer in it."
— Grant Goldberg (@GrantGoldberg) February 21, 2017
Cites Ryan West and the "great job" he's done with it. Good sign for West.
— Grant Goldberg (@GrantGoldberg) February 21, 2017
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, this may point to West being a major voice in the organization over the next two days as the Lakers attempt to remain involved in the trade market.
While reactions towards Magic are rightfully mixed, West’s inclusion in the new regime should be lauded.
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