Mark Walter and Todd Boehly Acquire Majority Stake in the Los Angeles Lakers

Mark Walter, the CEO of Guggenheim Partners, is set to acquire a majority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers, with the deal expected to close imminently. Walter's longtime business partner, Todd Boehly, co-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, will also be involved in the transaction. Together, they will own approximately 85% of the Lakers, marking a significant shift in the franchise's ownership structure after nearly five decades under the Buss family. Jeanie Buss, the current team governor and daughter of the late Jerry Buss, will retain a 15% stake and continue in her role.

Walter’s Lakers Buy Includes Dodgers Co-Owner BoehlyHow Former Lakers Owner Jerry Buss Taught Daughter Jeanie to be a “Pitbull in a Skirt”Ex-LA Dodgers owner puts Malibu mansion back on market for nearly $75MLA TimesSports Illustrated

The deal values the Lakers at $10 billion, surpassing the previous record of $6.1 billion set by the Boston Celtics. Walter and Boehly initially purchased a 27% stake in the Lakers in 2021. The transition to new ownership is notable as it represents the end of the Buss family's majority control, which began with Jerry Buss's acquisition of the team in 1979 for $67.5 million.

Walter’s Lakers Buy Includes Dodgers Co-Owner BoehlyHow Former Lakers Owner Jerry Buss Taught Daughter Jeanie to be a “Pitbull in a Skirt”Ex-LA Dodgers owner puts Malibu mansion back on market for nearly $75MLA TimesSports Illustrated

While representatives for the NBA, the Lakers, Walter, and Boehly have not commented on the deal, the transaction is expected to be finalized before the start of November. This sale is distinct from other recent NBA transactions, such as Tom Dundon's multi-stage purchase of the Portland Trail Blazers, which has drawn scrutiny from league officials.

Walter’s Lakers Buy Includes Dodgers Co-Owner Boehly

Despite the excitement surrounding the new ownership, some critics have expressed concerns about the implications of such a significant ownership change. Observers have noted that the Buss family's departure could alter the team's culture and operations, which have been closely tied to their legacy. Additionally, there are questions about how Walter and Boehly will manage the franchise moving forward, given their existing commitments to the Dodgers and Chelsea FC.

Walter’s Lakers Buy Includes Dodgers Co-Owner Boehly

As the Lakers navigate this transition, they are currently competing in the 2025-26 NBA season, with a record of 2-1. The team has seen strong performances from players like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, although LeBron James is sidelined due to sciatica issues. The new ownership will likely focus on maintaining the team's competitive edge while also exploring potential changes in management and strategy.

Walter’s Lakers Buy Includes Dodgers Co-Owner Boehly

• “With the Buss family departing as majority owners and Walter and Boehly taking over, it’s truly a new era of Lakers basketball.” — Front Office Sports

Walter’s Lakers Buy Includes Dodgers Co-Owner Boehly

• “She is now expected to continue running Lakers operations even after the record-breaking sale of the team to Dodgers owner Mark Walter is finalized, something that could happen in the coming days.” — The Sports Rush

How Former Lakers Owner Jerry Buss Taught Daughter Jeanie to be a “Pitbull in a Skirt”

This acquisition marks a pivotal moment in the history of the Los Angeles Lakers, as the franchise prepares for a future under new leadership while aiming to uphold its storied legacy in the NBA.

Walter’s Lakers Buy Includes Dodgers Co-Owner Boehly