Lakers sale to Bob Iger, Josh Kushner came together in three days

Apparently, it takes about three days to buy the Lakers. Provided, of course, you have $12.5 billion handy.

Bob Iger told Khobi Price of the California Post that his purchase of the Lakers alongside Josh Kushner came together in a whirlwind three-day negotiation with Mark Walter.

Interestingly, buying the Lakers wasn’t even the original plan.

Iger and Kushner had been pursuing ownership of a potential NBA expansion franchise in Las Vegas when they learned Walter might be willing to sell his Lakers stake.

“We immediately decided that given the value of the franchise and the iconic nature of the team, that we would be really smart to pursue it,” Iger said. “The deal came together in three days. It’s that simple.”

Walter purchased the Lakers from the Buss family just over a year ago at a $10 billion valuation. As part of that deal, Jeanie Buss was to remain the team’s governor for at least five years.

Iger said he and Kushner intend to honor that arrangement.

“We have enormous respect and appreciation for Jeanie, her father and what they’ve contributed to this franchise,” he said.

Iger has spoken with Buss and coach JJ Redick, but not yet Luka Doncic. He also said it’s too early to outline any grand vision for the franchise.

“We’re fans,” Iger said. “We respect the value that’s been created, both on the court and off.”

Not a bad consolation prize for missing out on an expansion team.