A few weeks ago, speculation began to run rampant about why Hall of Famer Magic Johnson was meeting with Los Angeles Lakers president Jeanie Buss before a game at the Staples Center. Now it appears the truth has been revealed with Magic returning to the organization in an advisory role.
According to Lakers.com, Johnson has agreed to return to the team to help provide assistance:
The Los Angeles Lakers today announced that Earvin “Magic” Johnson will return to the Lakers to assist Jeanie Buss in all areas of basketball and business as an advisor.
Johnson said the following about coming back to the team he lead to five NBA titles as a player, via Lakers.com:
“Everyone knows my love for the Lakers. Over the years, I have considered other management opportunities, however my devotion to the game and Los Angeles make the Lakers my first and only choice. I will do everything in my power to help return the Lakers to their rightful place among the elite teams of the NBA,” said Johnson.
With Magic now back in the fold and being an advisor for Jeanie, it’ll be interesting to see what direction the team takes after the season is over in terms of the fate of Jim Buss and general manager Mitch Kupchak.
Johnson has been highly critical of the job Jim has done over the years and will almost certainly be expressing his opinion as to what should be done once the 2016-17 NBA campaign comes to an end. Along with advising Jeanie on the business side of things, Magic’s duties will also include mentoring players, getting involved with the coaches, and giving his take on what moves the franchise should make moving forward.
