Magic Johnson Reveals What LeBron James Told Him When He Joined the LA Lakers

LeBron James reestablished the LA Lakers as the best basketball franchise in the NBA this season by leading them to their 17th title. It was his first in the purple and gold in his second season. The first season was fraught with internal turmoil and injuries for LeBron, but the Lakers figured it out by the time the new season rolled around.

One man behind the internal turmoil in LA last season was Magic Johnson, who would go on to leave his post within the organization. However, he is still an important part of the franchise and their history. He revealed to the ‘KJZ Show’ on ESPN what LeBron had told him when he agreed to join LA in 2018. He also gave Anthony Davis ample credit for elevating his play.

“LeBron James had said that he was coming to Los Angeles. He told me when I sat down with him that his whole purpose was to win a championship and put the Lakers back where they belong, and he did exactly that.

“I think the world got a chance to see also that not only is LeBron James the basketball player in the world, but we also got a chance to see Anthony Davis perform on the biggest stage. And he dominated as well.”

LeBron James and Anthony Davis build on 2020’s success

LeBron James and Anthony Davis are easily the best duo in the league. While LeBron won Finals MVP in his dominant Finals run against the Miami Heat, Anthony Davis didn’t slouch. Outside one bad game where he was restricted to 15 points, Davis was a monster on both ends of the ball. His versatility and size further unlocked LeBron’s ability to close the series out.

Magic Johnson tried to get AD to LA when he was in the team. While he didn’t get it done, Rob Pelinka did, and the team is way better for it. However, credit should always go to Magic Johnson for starting this era of Lakers’ success, as he was the one that convinced LeBron to join the Lakers in 2018.