The Los Angeles Lakers' 20-year, $3 billion deal with Time Warner to broadcast games features annual income that hinges on ratings, according to sources.

This contributed to the Lakers' decision to sign Kobe Bryant to an extension last year and is also why the team continues their attempts to field a competitive roster instead of embracing a full rebuild.

One insider of the Lakers also believes many season ticket holders called Jim Buss about making sure the Lakers keep Bryant.