Rob Pelinka Reveals Vision for Luke Kennard
Rob Pelinka spoke to the media for the first time after the trade deadline on Saturday night. A main focus of the press conference was the Lakers’ lone deadline acquisition, Luke Kennard.
Pelinka made it clear he has a specific vision for how Kennard will fit into the Lakers’ lineup.
How Luke Kennard Slots In
Pelinka stated that having a shooter like Kennard surrounding the big three is extremely important. He feels that, despite playing a similar position to two of the Lakers’ big three, he can play in a lineup with them.
The Lakers GM explained that, especially come playoff time, Kennard could be used in a small-ball, “all-shooting lineup” that involves him, Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, LeBron James, and Rui Hachimura. This would create a tough assignment for opposing defenses.
Luke Kennard in his first game for the Lakers:
– 10 Points
– 2 Rebounds
– 2 Assists
– 71.4 TS%I can get used to this 👏
(Via @LALPerformance)
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) February 8, 2026
Lineup in Action
It would certainly be interesting to see how this sort of lineup could work. After all, JJ Redick went away from his center rotation last year in the playoffs. The Lakers have upgraded at that spot this season.
But there could be certain matchups that would allow this lineup to be effective. There are also possible variations of it with a singular inside-the-arc player like Deandre Ayton, Jaxson Hayes, Maxi Kleber, or Jared Vanderbilt.
Regardless, it is clear that Luke Kennard adds elite floor spacing that will support every member of the Lakers’ big three.
