Laker Owner, Riley Will Discuss Contract Extension After Season

Perhaps responding to rumors that Pat Riley will leave coaching to become a broadcaster after this season, Laker owner Jerry Buss has begun negotiations on a contract extension for the Laker coach.

Riley, who has two seasons remaining on the contract he signed midway through last season, confirmed that an extension was first discussed two months ago.

“It’s been discussed, but basically it’s an agreement to meet and that’s all,” Riley said Saturday. “It came from Dr. Buss. He wanted to do it. I didn’t initiate it.”

Riley said he will not meet with Buss again until after the playoffs, so as not to distract from the Lakers’ play.

“We’ll wait to talk,” Riley said, laughing. “I trust Dr. Buss’ word on it. It’s no big deal.”

Riley, along with Chuck Daly, coach of the Detroit Pistons, has been mentioned as a possible commentator for NBC’s coverage of the NBA next season. But Riley has said that he will stay with the Lakers.