The Los Angeles Lakers have hired former New Orleans Pelicans vice president of strategy and operations Rohan Ramadas as an assistant general manager, the team announced on May 25. Ramadas will focus on strategy, salary cap management, and analytics for the Lakers.
A source from the Pelicans told ESPN that Ramadas is “a literal rocket scientist.” While working for the Pelicans, he implemented artificial intelligence and coded models to assist the front office, according to the same source. After graduating from the University of Southern California, Ramadas spent over a decade with Aerospace Corporation before joining New Orleans. He is expected to play a similar role in Los Angeles by helping implement analytical models for decision-making.
The Lakers’ front office has previously operated with a limited staff in analytics. The arrival of new owner Mark Walter is expected to allow expansion in various departments throughout the organization. This will benefit players, coaching staff, and other areas within the franchise.
The team plans to hire one more assistant general manager who will concentrate on scouting and development. Once these positions are filled, the front office aims to be fully equipped under Walter’s ownership.
Luka Doncic reportedly believes that this season’s roster was capable of contending for a championship before injuries affected their performance late in the year.