BREAKING NEWS: Los Angeles Lakers Legend James Worthy Returns as Co-Owner In a monumental announcement, Los Angeles Lakers owner Mark Walter, Buss Family Trust, has officially declared that Denis Savard the long-time face of the franchise, will return to the organization in 2025 as a co-owner..…view more

In one of the most remarkable developments in recent NBA history, the Los Angeles Lakers organization has officially announced that franchise legend James Worthy is returning to the team in a groundbreaking capacity — as a co-owner. The revelation was made earlier today by Lakers principal owner Mark Walter, alongside the Buss Family Trust, during a special press conference held at Crypto.com Arena.

Adding further intrigue to the already earth-shaking news, it was also confirmed that Denis Savard, a long-standing icon in professional sports and the face of franchise excellence in various capacities, will also be joining the ownership group, reinforcing a new era for the Lakers as they seek to blend legacy with innovation.

This announcement has sent shockwaves through the NBA community and re-energized Lakers fans worldwide. The return of James Worthy — not as a player, analyst, or ambassador, but as a decision-maker and stakeholder — marks a full-circle moment for the Hall of Famer who helped define the golden era of Lakers basketball in the 1980s.

James Worthy: From Showtime to Shareholder

James Worthy, affectionately known as “Big Game James,” was a crucial figure in the Lakers’ legendary “Showtime” era. Selected as the first overall pick in the 1982 NBA Draft, Worthy played his entire 12-year career with the Lakers. He won three NBA championships (1985, 1987, 1988) alongside Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and earned the NBA Finals MVP in 1988 for his stellar performance in Game 7 against the Detroit Pistons.

Since retiring in 1994, Worthy has remained closely connected to the Lakers as a commentator, mentor, and ambassador. His commitment to the team’s values, combined with his vast basketball IQ, made him a natural fit for deeper involvement. Today’s announcement solidifies that legacy in historic fashion.

“This is a dream realized,” Worthy said during the announcement. “To be part of this organization as a player was one of the great honors of my life — to return now as an owner is something I never imagined, but I feel incredibly humbled and ready.”

Why This Move Matters

The Lakers are not just adding a former legend to the ownership suite for ceremonial value — this is a strategic investment in culture, credibility, and continuity.

Over the past few years, many franchises have begun integrating former players into executive or ownership roles. However, what makes Worthy’s involvement unique is the depth of his history with the team and the timing of his return. The Lakers are currently in a transitional phase, with LeBron James nearing the end of his playing career and a younger generation of stars like Austin Reaves and Jalen Hood-Schifino stepping into the spotlight.

Bringing in Worthy ensures the organization remains rooted in its championship heritage while navigating a modern, fast-evolving NBA landscape. His voice will be crucial in basketball operations, player development culture, and community engagement.

Denis Savard: A Surprise but Strategic Addition

While James Worthy’s return has dominated headlines, the inclusion of Denis Savard as a co-owner is another fascinating aspect of this deal. Known primarily for his Hall of Fame NHL career with the Chicago Blackhawks and Montreal Canadiens, Savard’s association with basketball is less direct but no less impactful.

Savard has long been known for his entrepreneurial ventures, philanthropic endeavors, and sports consultancy work. Over the years, he has developed relationships across different professional leagues, including the NBA, NFL, and MLS. His crossover into basketball ownership is being viewed as a calculated move by the Lakers to expand their reach, diversify leadership perspectives, and introduce innovative business practices from outside the traditional basketball ecosystem.

“Denis brings a fresh lens to this organization,” said Lakers owner Mark Walter. “He understands sports culture, has been a leader in team dynamics, and most importantly, shares our commitment to community, growth, and winning.”

Fan Reactions and NBA Community Response

Social media platforms exploded moments after the announcement. Former teammates, current players, celebrities, and fans flooded timelines with tributes, excitement, and appreciation for Worthy’s homecoming.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised the move:

“James Worthy has always represented the highest ideals of the game — integrity, excellence, and leadership. His return to the Lakers in this capacity is a win for the league and a model for other organizations.”

Lakers legend Magic Johnson shared his thoughts via X (formerly Twitter):

“So proud of my brother James Worthy! This is what it’s all about — building something that lasts and bringing the family back home. Showtime isn’t just a memory — it’s the future!”

Meanwhile, Lakers fans have already begun speculating about what this new ownership direction could mean — from reshaped basketball operations to enhanced youth development programs and even new community outreach campaigns across Los Angeles.

What This Means for the Lakers’ Future

The Lakers are currently riding a wave of youth development and retooling as they aim to return to championship form. With James Worthy’s arrival as a co-owner, the franchise is expected to place a renewed focus on mentorship, player identity, and maintaining the Lakers’ signature winning culture.

Insiders suggest that Worthy will be actively involved in basketball decisions — including scouting, draft strategy, and organizational development. His reputation for mentoring young players — especially big men — will likely become a key feature of Lakers training and developmental programs.

Worthy’s leadership is also expected to have an impact on Lakers branding and media. Given his long-standing role as an analyst with Spectrum SportsNet, there are talks about him heading a new in-house content initiative that gives fans deeper access to the team’s history and behind-the-scenes moments.

A Legacy Cemented in Purple and Gold

This move transcends basketball. It’s about heritage, progress, and honoring those who laid the foundation for the franchise’s greatness. James Worthy’s transition from NBA star to co-owner is symbolic of the new generation of athletes-turned-business leaders who are shaping the future of professional sports.

Worthy ended his speech with a message directly to fans:

“To the Laker Nation — this is our team. I wore the jersey with pride, and now I carry the responsibility with honor. We’re not just chasing banners — we’re building a legacy for the next 50 years. Let’s go to work.”

As the 2025–26 NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on Los Angeles — not just for the action on the court, but for the monumental shift in leadership that is poised to redefine what it means to be a Laker.

Conclusion

The return of James Worthy as a co-owner of the Los Angeles Lakers is more than a headline — it’s a transformative moment in the franchise’s storied history. Joined by Denis Savard, a respected figure from the broader sports world, the Lakers are poised to usher in a new era of excellence rooted in tradition, driven by innovation, and fueled by a love for the game.