The Los Angeles Lakers have continuously operated as a tight-knit family business, but the Mark Walter era is already shattering that tradition. With the new owner bringing in his trusted lieutenants from the baseball world, the franchise is undergoing its most radical front-office shift in decades.
Now, the question isn’t just about who is calling the shots, but which sport’s philosophy will guide the Purple and Gold back to contention.
Why Are Dodgers Executives Joining the Los Angeles Lakers?
The NBA and MLB are closer than ever in their approach to team building, from Moneyball analytics to navigating complex tax structures. That makes it less surprising that Los Angeles Dodgers executives Andrew Friedman and Farhan Zaidi have taken on advisory roles with the Lakers, according to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne. These moves arrive amidst significant changes following Mark Walter’s purchase of the franchise.
BREAKING: Dodgers executives Andrew Friedman and Farhan Zaidi are taking on advisory roles with the Lakers, per @ramonashelburne.
Whoa. pic.twitter.com/GdH3gmDahh
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) November 21, 2025
Earlier this week, the Buss brothers, Joey and Jesse, were ousted from their scouting roles, where they had recently found success. However, neither Friedman nor Zaidi is stepping in to replace the brothers directly. Instead, this represents a broader philosophical shift in how the organization operates at its highest levels.
Friedman, the Dodgers’ president of baseball operations, “mostly consults with Lakers president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka.” His expertise in balancing aggressive roster moves with maintaining a strong farm system translates well across sports. Zaidi, who Friedman originally hired as a general manager, serves as the analytics-minded advisor. His specific role is described as “functioning as Walter’s representative in helping with the transition.”
This collaboration makes sense beyond just the shared Los Angeles market. Both franchises operate under TWG Sports, “the entity Walter created to oversee all his sports holdings.” Since Zaidi and Friedman “are acting as senior executives of TWG Sports,” this is effectively an in-house restructure rather than an outside takeover.
What Does This Mean for the Buss Family Legacy?
Walter’s track record since becoming the controlling owner of the Dodgers in 2012 suggests he prioritizes winning and community investment. He may eventually become as beloved in Lakers lore as Dr. Jerry Buss, but the transition has been painful for the previous regime.
Considering their deep ties to the organization, his sons’ feelings about being ripped away from the franchise are understandable. However, their fate may have been sealed when they voted against Walter during his initial attempt to purchase the team. Even Jeanie Buss faces an uncertain future, though she did more to connect with the new owner than her siblings did.
