Brian Windhorst Makes Bold Speculation on Buss Brothers' "Venomous" Firing by Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss 

In a surprising shift in the LA Lakers organization, the new ownership group has fired the Buss Brothers, ending Joey and Jesse’s two-decade-long working relationship with the franchise. NBA insider Brian Windhorst has provided more insight into why the shocking move feels much harsher than it appears at first glance.

Speaking on “ESPN Podcasts,” Windhorst pointed out how unusual the timing of the sacking is. Teams typically rely heavily on their scouting departments during November, which is one of the busiest points in the basketball calendar. Even if a team truly wanted to make a change, they would normally wait until the season ended.

Windhorst described the timing and method of the firings as extremely aggressive. It gives the impression that someone at the top wanted them gone immediately, regardless of the consequences.

“What is unusual is to run your scouting staff out at the end of November because this is scouting season and if you want to hire other scouts, they work for other teams,” Windhorst said. “You can't just build your scouting staff, and they actually have their draft pick this year. You know, they're hoping it's going to be in the 20s.”

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This is done with venom,” he continued. “This is blood is thicker than water here because, you know, you would not fire your scouting staff. Even if you hated your director of scouting, you would not fire them in November, and certainly their whole staff.”

The Buss brothers were widely respected for their eye for talent. Over the years, their scouting helped the Lakers discover players whom others often overlooked. They played a major role in bringing in Austin Reaves, Julius Randle, Jordan Clarkson, Kyle Kuzma, Josh Hart, Ivica Zubac, and several others who have gone on to become big names in the league.

Lakers bring changes to roster following firing of the Buss Brothers

The LA Lakers front office has made several roster moves following the firing of the Buss Brothers. One of the first changes involved Bronny James. The decision was not a shock, as he was sent to the South Bay Lakers shortly after LeBron James was cleared to return. With LeBron back in the lineup, Bronny no longer had a roster spot.

The Purple & Gold also upgraded Drew Timme of the South Bay Lakers to a two-way contract.

"The Lakers are in the process of finalizing a two-way contract with Drew Timme, league sources told @ClutchPoints," Brett Siegel tweeted on Friday.

Of course, adding Timme means the Lakers need to open up a spot. Many insiders believe that Christian Koloko or Chris Manon could be released to make room.

Edited by Advait Jajodia