Rob Pelinka said on May 23 that Tony Bennett has been an important addition to the Los Angeles Lakers front office as a draft advisor. With the NBA Draft approaching in June, Pelinka discussed Bennett’s impact during his end-of-year press conference.
Bennett, formerly the head coach at Virginia, brings significant college basketball experience to the Lakers’ draft and scouting processes. “Tony Bennett has been an invaluable addition to our Draft and scouting processes,” Pelinka said. “What he built at UVA was really, really special. Tony has said he never, ever, wants to coach again. That chapter in his life is 100% over. But having the mind of a builder and coach in our Draft department with our scouts has been incredibly special. So what an addition.”
The Lakers have struggled with some recent draft picks and hope that Bennett’s knowledge of college players will help them find new talent more consistently moving forward.
Pelinka also mentioned that the team is searching for two assistant general managers who will work under him.
In light of changes brought by the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA), Pelinka emphasized how player development is becoming increasingly important for building a successful team. “I think in this salary cap system, player development is going to be a huge thing to lean into for success ultimately,” he said. He pointed out examples such as Rui Hachimura and Adou Thiero as players who have improved through development efforts led by head coach JJ Redick and his staff.
Looking ahead, Pelinka stressed that continuing to find and develop young talent will be key for the Lakers’ future.