The Los Angeles Lakers’ $10 billion sale to billionaire Mark Walter is not only a historic moment for the franchise—it could also influence LeBron James’s long-term plans both as a player and a potential future team owner.
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, a source close to James believes Walter may become a valuable sounding board for the 40-year-old as he nears retirement and eyes ownership opportunities. Walter, who leads the Dodgers’ ownership group, has reportedly built a strong relationship with Lakers governor Jeanie Buss over the last decade.
“I spoke to a source close to LeBron who thought that Mark Walter could be an excellent person that LeBron can reach out to as his playing career winds to an end and use him to consult with, pick his brain,” McMenamin said.
For James, who has publicly expressed interest in owning an NBA team one day, Walter’s business acumen may represent an important connection.
James holds a $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season. While speculation around his decision continues, McMenamin stated that he doesn’t expect the four-time MVP to leave Los Angeles or restructure his deal.
“To me that’s an indication that obviously that there’s a positive thought here,” McMenamin said. “LeBron still has his decision to make as to whether he’s going to opt into the final year of his deal, opt out and try to negotiate a different one with the Lakers or go elsewhere. I really don’t think he’s going elsewhere.”
McMenamin added, “I actually don’t really particularly think he’s going to opt out and negotiate a new deal… I think he’s going to opt in. And at that point, he will comment on all things Lakers.”
“Obviously that was kind of a shocking turn of events,” McMenamin said, referencing Magic’s abrupt departure from the Lakers in 2019. “From my understanding, the relationship between Magic and LeBron is good. I don’t think it ever got particularly close, and I don’t think it was so derailed by Magic’s decision.”
McMenamin added that Magic’s increasing presence due to his business relationship with Walter wouldn’t necessarily cause friction with James. “I think they’ll be able to operate just fine. And who knows, maybe this is the point that they do develop a great [relationship],” he said.
James wrapped up his 22nd NBA season with averages of 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists in 70 regular season games. In the playoffs, he played 40.8 minutes per game while posting 25.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists over five contests before the Lakers were eliminated by the Timberwolves in the first round.
Throughout the 2024–25 season, James added several career milestones, including surpassing 50,000 combined points and becoming the oldest player in league history to record multiple triple-doubles and 40-point games.
Walter’s acquisition of the Lakers—now the most expensive franchise sale in pro sports history—positions the organization for long-term business growth. It may also offer James insight into life beyond basketball, especially as he openly pursues ownership opportunities.
Buss will remain in control of basketball operations despite the transaction, which gives Walter majority ownership of the team. Her continued role was part of the agreement, preserving operational continuity during a time of transition.
