“So, to get to this place, there are a couple of people I want to thank. First and foremost is Jeanie Buss. She’s so supportive,” Pelinka said. “I think her vision, which falls in line with the great and late Dr. Buss, to always make sure the brightest and best basketball superstars play for the Los Angeles Lakers. She’s clearly carried that vision on from her dad, and I just want to thank her for her tremendous support and vision in helping this day become a reality. “The second person I want to thank is, any time there’s a trade or a transaction, there has to be a partner, and I want to thank the Dallas Mavericks, led by their GM, Nico Harrison, who was also very instrumental in bringing this opportunity to us, and then staying true to the negotiations throughout where it could be culminated with the trade being finalized, and Luka Doncic, Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris becoming members of our team. Wanted to thank those two people.” -via Lakers Nation / February 11, 2025