The Los Angeles Lakers are known around the globe, not only because they are historically dominant team, or even that they have some of the most iconic stars in the league to wear their uniform.
Rather, it is because they’re a cultural phenomenon. Although this may be known to those who enjoy the NBA and the sport of basketball, the Lakers are actually not the wealthiest franchise in the NBA.
That title, belongs to the New York Knicks. So, what is the lakers 2025 valuation estimate and how does the Lakers financial prowess stack up to their performance on the court.
From some of the highest player salaries in the league, to substantial ticket prices due to the market and location of the team, let alone the history behind the business itself.
The Lakers have amassed a valuation of over $8 billion as of the end of 2024, per Forbes, good for the third most valuable franchise in the NBA & eighth in the USA. Let’s dive into what makes the Lakers one of the most valuable franchises.
The Stars and Their Salaries
The Lakers’ “Main Three”: LeBron, Anthony Davis, and Austin Reaves.
- LeBron James: Has an individual net worth estimated at $1 billion, with over $400 million coming from NBA contracts alone. For the current NBA season (2024-2025) Bron will earn $51.4M.
- Anthony Davis: Estimated career earnings of nearly $270 million, including $40.6M this season.
- Austin Reaves: The rising star signed a 4-year, $56M deal this offseason, earning approximately $12M annually.
Combined, their salaries make up over 60% of the team’s entire payroll.
(This does not change with their acquisition of Luka Doncic post the publishment of this article). Luka Dončić Traded to the Lakers
The Lakers are currently sitting at sixth in the Western Conference standings, sitting at 23-18 as of January 21st, 2025, just a half game back of their same-city rivals.
The Los Angeles Lakers also made noise during the off-season with their hiring of new Head Coach, J.J Redick.
The former 2x All-American and 16-year veteran is off to a solid start for his first season as an NBA HC. Redick signed a 4-year/$32 million-dollar deal over the summer, locking him in likely beyond the retirement of Lebron James.
However, the Lakers have not had a steady figure in the HC role since the fired Frank Vogel after the 2022 NBA season.
Revenue vs. Expenses
Despite these hefty contracts, the Lakers remain profitable. In 2024-25, the team is projected to generate over $1 billion in revenue, with major streams including:
- Ticket Sales: The average ticket price at Crypto.com Arena in downtown Los Angeles is around $350, among the highest in the league.
- Concessions: Los Angeles dominates in game-day revenue, compared to smaller markets like Milwaukee, Indiana or Memphis.
- Sponsors: Major partnerships with Nike, Bibigo, American Express, Delta Airlines to name a few, as well as many others, also help to bolster the Lakers bottom line.
Still, the Lakers face other challenges financially. The Los Angeles, California location brings on high luxury taxes and soaring operational costs, which make profitability a balancing act.
The Lakers vs. Clippers
While the Lakers are basketball royalty, the Clippers have been making moves over the last few years.
With the new owner, former Microsoft CEO from 2000-2014, self-financing the opening of the newly built Intuit Dome, the Clippers are closing the gap in valuations.
However, the Lakers’ global brand and star power will likely continue to give them the edge in the financials department.
Community and Resilience
Even amidst external challenges like California’s wildfires, the Lakers maintain their status as a unifying force in the community.
Their efforts in relief and rebuilding will only assist to enhance their reputation.
The Lakers have come together with other franchises in the Los Angeles area, to donate and help raise funds for both the American Red Cross and LA Fire Departments, to aid those affected by the catastrophe the city is currently facing.
The Lakers’ 2024-25 season isn’t just about wins and losses, it’s about maintaining their financial and cultural dynasty on and off the court.
Next Reads
- Luka Dončić Traded to the Lakers for Anthony Davis
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Path to an $80 Million Per Year Contract Extension
- Paolo Banchero’s $239 Million Contract Extension
- Cooper Flagg Could Earn Over $1 Billion in Future NBA Contracts
- Ace Bailey’s NBA Draft Fall Cost Him $9 Million
Credits
Written by: Aidan Anderson
Research and Analysis: Apostle Sports Media LLC
Sources: NBA contract databases, official NBA and team sites, Basketball-Reference, NBA historical financial reports, APSM Proprietary Analysis.
Social Media Clips: Insta & X
Featured Image: Public Domain / Wiki Commons
Disclaimer: This article contains general financial information for educational purposes and does not constitute as professional advice.
“Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me.”
– Psalm 54:4
Apostle Sports Media 