Los Angeles Dodgers controlling owner Mark Walter purchased majority ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers from the Buss family for a valuation of approximately $10 billion. It was the largest sale of a professional sports franchise in the world.
As the Lakers usher in the Luka Doncic era, the organization could not be better equipped with Walter at the helm. The Dodgers have made the postseason every year since 2013, winning 11 of 12 division titles since Walter purchased the team with Guggenheim Baseball Management for $2.15 billion.
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Manager Dave Roberts made two important requests for Walter as he assumes control of the NBA franchise. While Shohei Ohtani is a two-way star in Major League Baseball, the Dodgers skipper doesn’t want Walter poaching him for the Lakers.
“Hands off of Shohei,” Roberts said, smiling. “They got enough superstars wearing the purple and gold. Leave him alone.”
Ohtani returned to two-way status Monday, when the right-hander made his first start since August 2023 against the San Diego Padres. Ohtani being a member of the Lakers would take being a two-way player to a whole new level.
Roberts’ second request is equally as funny, but perhaps more personal.
Roberts would love some courtside seats to a Lakers game.
“I’m sure a lot of people have hit Mark up,” Roberts said, “but I might add myself to the list.”
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Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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