Mark Walter Plans $10B Los Angeles Lakers Majority Ownership

The Los Angeles Lakers are facing challenges with their current center, Deandre Ayton, who has failed to meet expectations as a long-term solution despite flashes of competence, prompting the team to consider pursuing other top-tier centers like Walker Kessler and Jaren Duren next offseason. A hypothetical trade proposal involving Joel Embiid being sent to the Lakers in exchange for LeBron James has sparked discussion, with concerns about Embiid's health and fit in the Philadelphia 76ers' evolving lineup, while LeBron's future as a free agent remains a hot topic. Concurrently, a major ownership change is underway as Mark Walter, already a minority owner, is poised to become the Lakers' majority owner in a record-breaking $10 billion deal, marking the most expensive sports franchise sale in U.S. history; the Buss family will maintain a minority stake, ensuring Jeanie Buss remains team governor. This pivotal ownership transition occurs as the Lakers seek to rebuild after a disappointing playoff exit. Additionally, Bradley Beal's integration into the Los Angeles Clippers highlights ongoing roster and rotation adjustments within the city's NBA teams. Overall, the Lakers are navigating both on-court personnel challenges and significant off-court ownership shifts as they aim to return to championship contention.