Among all the other things that the return of this NBA season means, at or around the top of the list as it always is, is money. The league was in a suboptimal financial position as a result of the shut down, and teams have also faced significant losses.
The Los Angeles Lakers have long been one of the most valuable franchises in all of sports and bring in a ton of money every year. Whether it is through ticket sales, merchandise or sponsorships, the Lakers are a massive brand.
But not being able to play games has also been a factor in their television contract with Spectrum SportsNet.