As a data-driven storytelling analyst from Chicago, I’ve seen how financial maneuvers mask deeper structural shifts. The rumored $6B sale of Lakers’ equity isn’t just about ownership—it’s a test case for NBA expansion logic. Behind the headlines, 30 owners may each gain $400M in future growth红利—but where’s the public conversation? This isn’t speculation. It’s systemic. And if we ignore it, we risk normalizing profit over purpose.