Los Angeles Lakers majority owner Mark Walter agreed to sell his stake to Josh Kushner and Bob Iger for a record $12.5 billion after just 14 months in control. The deal still requires NBA board of governors approval, which is not expected at their September 14-15 meeting.
Walter’s decision to sell triggered a chain reaction including the Buss family putting their 17.8 percent share on the market. Jeanie Buss is legally challenging her siblings’ move to sell, with her petition set for a December 8 hearing after a continuance from the original November 5 date. The NBA has not placed the ownership vote on the agenda for the upcoming governors’ meeting.
The prolonged approval process leaves the franchise in limbo during a critical offseason period. Despite the ownership uncertainty, the Lakers have continued strengthening their front office by hiring Rohan Ramadas as assistant general manager focused on strategy and data systems. They later added Eric Amsler for player personnel and Keith D’Amelio as director of integrated performance systems.
These hires signal the organization’s commitment to building a competitive roster ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season, even as ownership questions linger. The front office additions aim to improve decision-making around player acquisitions, roster construction and performance optimization. Fans can monitor upcoming games through the schedule page as the team prepares for training camp.
