The Los Angeles Lakers are trying to expand their front office this offseason, and Daryl Morey could be exactly who they are looking for. With Morey currently out of a job after getting fired from Philadelphia, and the Lakers looking for people to help Rob Pelinka, this could be the perfect match.
According to ESPN, the Philadelphia 76ers fired president of basketball operations Daryl Morey following another disappointing season. At the same time, Rob Pelinka revealed that the Lakers plan to hire two assistant general managers this offseason as part of a broader effort to expand the organization’s front office. Pelinka explained that one of the positions will focus heavily on analytics, strategic planning, and salary cap management. Those responsibilities closely align with the role Morey just held in Philadelphia, which is why his name immediately stands out as a possible fit for the opening.
The Mark Walter Effect
This expansion points directly to Walter’s arrival as controlling owner. The Lakers are looking to modernize parts of the organization and invest more heavily in the operational side of the franchise. The focus is not only on improving the roster itself, but also on the structure behind the scenes that shapes long-term roster decisions. The sudden influx of funds is also a reason the organization is willing to spend where it previously did not.
Morey’s Analytics Background
Daryl Morey stands out for this job because he is known as one of the NBA’s most analytics-focused executives. When he led the Houston Rockets, Morey used a data-driven approach to build the roster and shape the team’s offense. Houston focused on efficiency, three-point shooting, and smart shot selection, which influenced how many teams play today. The Rockets were also top contenders in the Western Conference for several years under Morey’s leadership.
Morey brought his analytical approach to the Philadelphia 76ers as well. Although the team did not meet its championship goals, they stayed aggressive in building around star players and keeping the roster flexible. Now, the Lakers are talking about improving their analytics, planning, and salary-cap strategy—areas where Morey has extensive experience.
Why an Assistant GM Role Could Make Sense
There will naturally be skepticism surrounding Morey because Philadelphia never reached the championship level many expected during his time leading basketball operations. That is part of why the idea of him joining the Lakers as an assistant general manager rather than as the lead decision-maker could make sense for both sides. In that role, Morey would not carry the full responsibility of leading the franchise or shaping every major organizational move himself.
Instead, Rob Pelinka would remain in charge while Morey could focus more specifically on analytics, strategy, and salary cap management, which are the exact areas the Lakers said they want to strengthen this offseason. That setup could allow the Lakers to benefit from Morey’s experience and analytical background while also limiting some of the concerns tied to his previous shortcomings as the top basketball executive in Philadelphia.
A Significant Offseason Ahead
Walter’s impact on the team is already clear. The Lakers are now talking about growing in areas like analytics and strategic planning, instead of sticking with their old, smaller setup. This change could be a major theme for the offseason.
It’s not certain if Morey will join the Lakers, but the connection makes sense based on recent reports. The Lakers are looking for leaders with analytics and strategy experience, and Morey is available after leaving Philadelphia. As the Lakers plan the next phase of the team around Luka, their front-office hires could shape the team’s future.
