Jerry Buss: The Lakers Owner & His Kings Connection

Hey hockey and basketball fans! Ever wondered about the connection between the glitz and glamour of the Los Angeles Lakers and the hard-hitting action of the Los Angeles Kings? Well, Jerry Buss, the iconic owner of the Lakers, plays a fascinating role in this story. While he's best known for transforming the Lakers into a global powerhouse, his journey also includes a significant chapter with the Kings. Let's dive into how this legendary figure left his mark on both the ice and the court.

Buss's Acquisition of the Los Angeles Kings

The story begins in 1979. Jerry Buss, a real estate mogul with a vision, purchased the Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Kings, The Forum (their shared arena), and a sprawling 13,000-acre ranch from Jack Kent Cooke in a blockbuster deal. Can you imagine buying two major sports teams and an arena all at once? That’s exactly what Jerry Buss did! This wasn't just a business transaction; it was the beginning of a new era for sports in Los Angeles. For Buss, this acquisition represented an opportunity to create a complete entertainment package, where fans could enjoy both basketball and hockey under one roof. He envisioned The Forum as the premier entertainment destination in Southern California. It was a bold move, and one that would ultimately shape the future of both franchises.

Buss understood the potential of the Los Angeles market. He knew that with the right leadership and investment, both the Lakers and the Kings could thrive. While his passion clearly leaned towards basketball, he recognized the value of the Kings and was committed to making them a competitive team. This initial period under Buss's ownership was marked by significant changes, both on and off the ice. He brought in new management and coaching staff, aiming to inject fresh energy and a winning mentality into the Kings organization. Although hockey wasn't his primary focus, Buss's ownership provided the Kings with the stability and resources they needed to grow in a competitive market. He laid the groundwork for future success, even if his heart belonged more to the hardwood than the ice rink. This era showcased Buss's business acumen and his ability to see the bigger picture, recognizing the synergistic potential of owning multiple sports franchises in a vibrant city like Los Angeles.

Buss's Impact on the Kings

So, what impact did Jerry Buss actually have on the Kings? While his heart was with the Lakers, his ownership undeniably influenced the Kings' trajectory. He wasn't as hands-on with the hockey team as he was with the Lakers. Buss delegated much of the Kings' management to trusted executives. However, his overall philosophy of providing a top-notch entertainment experience extended to the Kings as well. He wanted fans to have a great time at the Forum, whether they were watching a Lakers game or a Kings match. This meant investing in the arena, improving the fan experience, and ensuring that both teams had the resources they needed to compete.

One of the most significant impacts was the financial stability that Buss's ownership provided. The Kings, under his leadership, had access to better resources and infrastructure, which allowed them to attract better players and coaching staff. While the Kings didn't achieve the same level of dominance as the Lakers during Buss's tenure, they remained a competitive team in the NHL. The stability he brought allowed the Kings to develop a loyal fanbase and build a foundation for future success. Furthermore, Buss's commitment to promoting both teams helped to raise the profile of hockey in Los Angeles. By cross-promoting the Lakers and the Kings, he introduced basketball fans to hockey and vice versa, expanding the audience for both sports. Although his direct involvement with the Kings was limited, his overarching vision for sports and entertainment in Los Angeles had a positive and lasting impact on the franchise.

Buss Sells the Kings

Fast forward to 1988, Jerry Buss made the decision to sell the Los Angeles Kings to Bruce McNall. Why would he sell one of his prized possessions? The primary reason was focus. Buss wanted to concentrate his energy and resources on the Lakers, who were rapidly becoming a global phenomenon. Under his ownership, the Lakers had already won multiple championships and were the darlings of the NBA. He saw an opportunity to solidify their dominance and build an even greater legacy. Selling the Kings allowed him to streamline his operations and dedicate his full attention to the Lakers. It was a strategic move aimed at maximizing the potential of his basketball empire.

Another factor in the sale was the changing landscape of sports ownership. Owning both a basketball and hockey team in the same market presented certain challenges, particularly in terms of resource allocation and management focus. By selling the Kings, Buss could simplify his business operations and avoid potential conflicts of interest. This decision also reflected his deep passion for basketball. While he appreciated hockey, his heart belonged to the Lakers. By focusing solely on basketball, he could fully immerse himself in the sport he loved and pursue his vision of creating the greatest basketball dynasty of all time. Although the sale marked the end of his direct involvement with the Kings, his initial investment and stewardship had laid the groundwork for the team's future success, setting the stage for their eventual Stanley Cup victories.

Jerry Buss's Lasting Legacy

Jerry Buss's legacy extends far beyond the basketball court. He revolutionized the sports and entertainment industry, transforming the Lakers into a global brand and creating a unique fan experience. His vision of combining sports with Hollywood glamour changed the way sports teams were marketed and perceived. But his impact on the Los Angeles Kings should not be overlooked. He provided the team with stability, resources, and a platform for growth during a crucial period in their history. While he may be best remembered for his contributions to basketball, his brief but significant ownership of the Kings played a role in shaping the franchise's identity and laying the foundation for their future success.

Buss's influence on the Kings is a testament to his business acumen and his understanding of the Los Angeles sports market. He recognized the potential of both franchises and worked to create a winning environment for both. Although his priorities shifted over time, his initial commitment to the Kings helped to elevate the team's profile and attract a loyal fanbase. His legacy serves as a reminder that even the most iconic figures in sports often have multifaceted stories, with contributions that extend beyond their primary area of focus. Jerry Buss was a visionary who left an indelible mark on the world of sports and entertainment, and his impact on both the Lakers and the Kings will be remembered for generations to come. So, the next time you're watching a Kings game, remember the man who once owned both the ice and the court, Jerry Buss.