NBA Rumors: Riley Stands Pat On Decision To Stay Away From Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers formally introduced Frank Vogel as their new head coach, but the real story of the day was the revelation of Earvin “Magic” Johnson. The former Lakers team president finally revealed the real season on why he vacated his post, singling out Rob Pelinka whom he alleged was stabbing him in the back.

Even before the big reveal of Magic, speculations were still up in the air on who deserved to become next Lakers president. Miami Heat president Pat Riley’s name had already been mentioned, and the 74-year-old had already said in the past that he was not interested in the position, adding that he was happy in South Beach.

With a new head coach found, most felt that the Lakers would turn their attention on the team’s vacant president for basketball operations. Further, Riley was never approached about an executive position in the first place, Heat Nation reported. Following the Vogel press conference, however, it looks like Pelinka just set the record straight on the position previously held by Johnson.

Pelinka was unsurprisingly thrown questions tied up to Johnson’s claim of betrayal and the current Lakers general manager responded to the allegations. Starting out that he was sad of the accusations made by the retired NBA great, Pelinka said he was open to talking with Johnson and straightening things out.

However, most who may have seen or heard it would agree that Pelinka’s response lacked a bit of sincerity – meaning he was prepared for the questions coming his way. Even making it more interesting was the fact that he said that the team president position was created mainly (and only) for Johnson.

Looking ahead, Pelinka also said that he will be closely working with team owner Jeanie Buss on the team’s direction and progress. From all indications and based on his explanation, it does somehow justify Johnson’s claim that Pelinka had wanted control of the Lakers.

Looking ahead, the worst is far from over in Hollywood with Vogel and the rest of the team placed in a precarious situation. With Buss having plenty of voices around her, the Lakers may be in for another rocky ride come the 2019-20 NBA season.

Pelinka, like Vogel, will be in the hot seat this coming season, a scenario that only a few are able to come out of with flying colors. As things look right now, the Lakers troubles may be far from over.