Mikhail Prokhorov Selling the Team?
This morning it was revealed that Mikhail Prokhorov has been in discussions the past week with the Los Angeles Dodger owners, known as the Guggenheim Sports and Entertainment Assets.
The current talks have been about combining assets and being partners. Mikhail would sell part of the team to the Dodgers owners, but still remain in control. It is unclear if Prokhorov would have any control of the Dodgers, though.
NetsDaily.com first reported the news , saying that the Guggenheim group met in Moscow with Prokhorov and Nets CEO Brett Yormark. In the discussions the team has been valued at $1.7B and Barclay?s Center at $1.1B. There is no indication how much of the team Mikhail is willing to sell. Some believe Prokhorov will sell the entire team and arena very soon.
In 2013 the Guggenheim Sports and Entertainment Assets group purchased the Los Angeles Dodger for $2.15B. If Mikhail Prokhorov and the Dodgers owner group combined together it would create one of the richest sports owners groups ever. Both owners have not been afraid to spend on their teams. The Nets and Dodgers each broke records for highest payroll in their respective sports.
Another interesting part of this whole development is the connection between the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Dodgers. It would create a fascinating link to the history between the Dodgers and Brooklyn after they left for Los Angeles in 1957. Could this Jersey design concept be used?
It remains to be seen how this could ultimately affect the Nets. It does not look good for the franchise that has constantly been in turmoil. What the organization really needs is some sort of consistency. Bringing in a new owner could shake up the entire franchise. If Mikhail still remains in control then it could be a positive because the Guggenheim group could bring more money to the table for the Nets to spend on players. There is no timetable for this deal to be done.