Sep 25, 2024; El Segundo, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka at press conference at UCLA Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Los Angeles Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka secured the sixth spot in the 2023–24 NBA Executive of the Year voting, as announced by the league. This marks an improvement from the previous season, where Pelinka finished 11th despite orchestrating significant midseason roster changes that propelled the Lakers into playoff contention.
The award was claimed by Boston Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens, who garnered 16 first-place votes and a total of 101 points. Stevens’ strategic acquisitions of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis were pivotal in leading the Celtics to a league-best 64–18 record.
Pelinka’s sixth-place finish reflects recognition from his peers for his efforts in reshaping the Lakers’ roster. Notably, he extended Anthony Davis’s contract and made key trades to bolster the team’s competitiveness. Despite these moves, some within the Lakers organization and fanbase believe Pelinka was deserving of higher placement, citing the team’s turnaround and playoff performance.
The Executive of the Year award is unique among NBA honors, as it is determined by votes from fellow team executives, highlighting the respect and acknowledgment from industry peers.
