Luka Doncic witnessed a groundbreaking moment in the sports world on Wednesday.
The Los Angeles Lakers completed their sale to a new ownership group led by Mark Walter for a record $10 billion, ending the Buss family’s decades-long control of the franchise.
The transition has sparked widespread discussion about what this change means for the Lakers’ future direction.
Analyst Colin Cowherd used his platform on “The Herd” podcast to deliver a pointed message directly aimed at Doncic, warning the Lakers star about the new ownership’s track record.
“That ownership group and the front office moved off Cody Bellinger, a National League MVP, and Corey Seager, a World Series MVP,” Cowherd reminded listeners. “If [Luka Doncic] doesn’t get in shape, if Luka doesn’t defend at a higher level, they’ll move off him. They will hold Luka accountable.”
Colin says Luka Dončić will have to shape up under the Lakers’ new ownership 💪 @colincowherd pic.twitter.com/lBG0hfLb96
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) June 19, 2025
Cowherd’s comments reference Walter’s previous decisions with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where the ownership group made bold moves by parting ways with championship-caliber players.
The analyst’s warning suggests that star status alone won’t guarantee job security under the new Lakers regime.
The timing of these comments coincides with ongoing discussions about Doncic’s conditioning and defensive effort.
While the Lakers star has consistently delivered spectacular offensive performances, questions about his physical preparation and defensive commitment have persisted throughout his career.
Walter’s ownership group brings a business-first mentality that prioritizes results over sentiment.
Their approach with the Dodgers demonstrated a willingness to make difficult personnel decisions regardless of a player’s past achievements or popularity.
This philosophy could signal a significant cultural shift for the Lakers organization.
The NBA fans will be watching closely to see how this ownership change impacts the Lakers’ roster construction and organizational culture moving forward.
