The Los Angeles Lakers, a storied franchise with 17 NBA championships, are once again under new ownership, marking the second significant change in the team's leadership in just over a year. Former Disney CEO Bob Iger and Joshua Kushner are reportedly in the process of acquiring the team from Mark Walter's ownership group, a deal that follows Walter's $10 billion purchase of the Lakers in October 2025. The swiftness of this transaction has introduced a degree of uncertainty for the team and its fanbase.
Under Walter's stewardship, the Lakers had begun implementing changes aimed at modernizing the organization. The team had revamped its front office, with a focus on data and analytics for player evaluation and free agency. Investments were being made in advanced facilities, including a biomechanics lab, new movement labs, and a recovery lab. Lon Rosen, formerly the chief marketing officer for the Dodgers, was appointed president of business operations for the Lakers, with Dodgers executives Andrew Friedman and Farhan Zaidi providing advisory support. This period was characterized by a clear strategy for rebuilding and retooling the team.
However, the impending ownership change to Iger and Kushner, who previously held a minority stake in the Miami Heat, shifts the landscape. Both Iger and Kushner have expressed their admiration for the franchise and their intention to build upon its existing strengths. "We're fans," Iger stated, acknowledging the value created both on and off the court. He emphasized that it is too early to speculate on specific plans, as no concrete decisions have been made yet. "We go into this with an appreciation of who the Lakers are. And we just want to build value from today on," Iger added.
The rapid nature of this deal, reportedly finalized in less than 72 hours, stemmed from Iger and Kushner's initial pursuit of a majority stake in a potential Las Vegas expansion franchise. The opportunity to acquire the Lakers emerged when they learned of Walter's potential interest in selling.
This ownership transition occurs as the Lakers navigate a period of on-court challenges. Since winning the NBA championship in 2020, the team has achieved limited playoff success, winning only three series. The franchise has experienced three coaching changes in six years and has secured just one title in the last 16 years. This performance has not met the expectations of a fanbase accustomed to the success of legends like Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant.
Despite the uncertainty, some prominent figures have expressed optimism about the new ownership. Former Lakers star Magic Johnson tweeted his support, stating, "Laker fans, you couldn’t have two better owners." He highlighted his long-standing personal relationship with Iger and his belief that Iger will help bring championships back to Los Angeles.
Key personnel are expected to remain in place, at least in the short term. Jeanie Buss is slated to continue as governor for at least another four years, as agreed upon during the sale to Walter. Iger has indicated his intention to honor existing agreements, though he acknowledged that circumstances could change. He has already initiated contact with Buss and Lakers head coach JJ Redick.
Player reactions have also surfaced, including from Luka Doncic, who was traded to the Lakers in February 2025. "Being a Laker means everything to me, and I’m excited to get back on the court and bring a championship to LA," Doncic posted on X. He added, "I’ve gotten used to big changes over these last few years, but I know that no matter what, there is no limit to the potential of this iconic franchise. I look forward to meeting Josh and Bob so we can get to work building something special in LA together."
LeBron James departed the Lakers in free agency last month, making the team largely Doncic's. The front office had been focused on assembling a roster around him, including the signing of center Walker Kessler, prior to this latest ownership development.
The franchise now faces the challenge of sorting through this period of transition and reaffirming its pursuit of greatness amidst the evolving ownership structure.