Lakers in the Spotlight Following $10 Billion Sale
The Los Angeles Lakers became the focal point of attention on Wednesday as an ESPN article detailed the historic $10 billion sale of the team by the Buss family to Mark Walter and his ownership group. The sale was reportedly influenced by internal conflicts within the Buss family. Additionally, the piece highlighted ongoing tension between Jeanie Buss and star player LeBron James, shedding light on frustrations with both James and his long-time agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports.
Among the concerns for Buss, the article pointed out, were James’ perceived ego and the significant influence he, along with Klutch, had within the organization, particularly since the agency also represents star forward Anthony Davis. In response to the report, Buss expressed her disappointment that James was entangled in the family’s issues.
“It’s really not right, given all the great things LeBron has done for the Lakers, that he has to be pulled into my family drama,” Buss stated. “To say that it wasn’t appreciated is just not true and completely unfair to him.”
Nonetheless, it is no secret that their relationship has faced challenges over recent years. Although James and Davis secured the Lakers a championship in 2020, disappointments persisted both before and after that achievement. Tensions between James, Paul, and Lakers management have occasionally resurfaced, such as during a 2022 meeting aimed at resolving misunderstandings.
The dynamic shifted with the arrival of Luka Dončić in February 2025, following Davis’ trade to the Mavericks. As Dončić is represented by WME’s Bill Duffy and not Klutch, Lakers officials viewed this as a beneficial reduction in outside influence over their top players. This evolving dynamic became evident last summer when the Lakers opted not to extend James’ contract before he decided to exercise his player option for this season.
After the sale was concluded, Buss was appointed the team’s governor, a position she is expected to hold for at least the next five years. She has since made significant staffing changes, including the termination of several family members in key roles within the organization.
In the years since their 2020 championship, the Lakers have struggled to establish a long-term plan beyond acquiring Dončić, posting a win percentage that ranks them 13th. Their draft choices have not panned out, with first-round picks either no longer on the team or sidelined, and recent playoff appearances have ended in early exits.
LeBron James, during his 23rd season in the NBA, missed the initial 14 games but returned to help the Lakers to a solid start. However, inconsistency from their star trio has hindered performance. Recent trade discussions involving Reaves have added to the narrative, with James clarifying that Paul speaks only for himself regarding such decisions.
