Over the past few years, longtime Los Angeles Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss has been battling multiple health issues, putting the future of the franchise in his hands into question.
With 10 NBA titles to his credit and numerous Hall of Famers wearing purple and gold throughout his time as the Lakers owner, Buss has been extremely successful with this team, and is one of the main reasons for the Lakers acquiring big-name players and consistently being a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference.
Not only has Buss been crucial in the team’s acquisitions and success over the last three decades, but he has also helped put together squads built to win championships every single year. The Lakers organization has had its ups and downs with Buss at the helm, but the team tends to bounce back with aggressive moves to mold legitimate NBA title contenders.
With news of Buss battling cancer and possibly nearing death at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, we take a look back at the most recent health problems plaguing the longtime owner recently.
Back in December of 2011, Buss was released from the hospital’s care after dealing with blood clots in his legs. The situation wasn’t considered serious at the time with Buss released shortly after being admitted.
Seven months after dealing with leg problems due to blood clots, the Lakers owner was back in the hospital in July of 2012. This time around, Buss was hospitalized due to severe dehydration. Buss was also released from the hospital soon after being admitted, not causing reasons for concern.
Before news broke of Buss battling cancer on Feb. 14, the 79-year-old underwent surgery for undisclosed reasons two months after suffering from severe dehydration in July. The reason for the surgery has been kept in-house by the Lakers organization, but it’s safe to say that Buss’ current battle with cancer was the cause of the surgery during the summer.
As of right now, Buss’ condition seems to be grave with numerous friends, family and former as well as current Lakers visiting the longtime owner. There’s been no update on Buss’ status, but Lakers Nation remains hopeful the greatest owner of all-time will bounce back in the near future.
