Lakers finalize deal for new training facility, headquarters in El Segundo

The Los Angeles Lakers have purchased a five acre property in El Segundo that will serve as the franchise's new training facility and headquarters, the team announced. Construction is expected to be completed by Spring 2017. The Lakers' currently use the Toyota Sports Center in El Segundo as their training grounds, while their executive offices are split between that location and another building in close proximity.

The new facility is expected to cost upwards of $80 million to build, according to Mike Bresnahan of the Los Angeles Times, and will also serve as home of the Los Angeles D-Fenders. The D-Fenders will host their regular season games on one of the new exhibition courts. They will have seating for 750 attendees.

This move will allow the Lakers a full facility that can serve as an all-in-one headquarters, instead of sharing space with the Los Angeles Kings and additional skating rinks that are open to the public. Lakers part-owner and vice president of basketball operations Jim Buss attached this statement with the franchise's press release:

"With its proximity to the airport and beaches, clean air, diverse businesses, and wonderful community, El Segundo is the perfect place for us to be," said Buss. "We've been here for the past 15 years with great success, and we're thrilled to secure the perfect spot to expand on that success and remain for many years as a part of this vibrant and growing area."

High-end training facilities never hurt a team's free agency pitch, and this sounds like it will be a nice upgrade for the Lakers.