Some Lakers fans have already drop-kicked former Laker Shaquille O’Neal to the curb upon news of him signing with the Celtics. It remains to be seen what the fall-out, if any, would be should Johnson’s rumored collaboration with the Ilitch-led group actually happen. Granted, the Pistons aren’t the Celtics and Shaquille O’Neal isn’t Magic Johnson.
In the mind of many a Lakers fan, Johnson can do no wrong. He’s earned that privilege, but it wouldn’t be quite the same having to see him wheel and deal for another team. The fact is, regardless of what the future holds Johnson will always remain an iconic figure in the city of Los Angeles. Just like Johnson owned a piece of the Lakers, so to do the Lakers fans own a piece of Johnson in memories and highlight reels.
No matter what connections he makes by purchasing majority ownership in another team, his greatest contributions to the game, at least for the time being, remain while wearing the purple and gold. During his peak, he lifted basketball to new heights in the 80’s and captured a generation of Lakers fans, who flocked to the fabulous Forum to witness the most breathtaking player who ever ran the fast break dish the ball to his teammates.
For the time being, as Johnson and the Lakers organization have indicated, although he steps down as minority owner, he remains vested in the team, keeping his title as vice president. Johnson’s long-time agent, Lon Rosen told ESPNLosAngeles.com that the sale of ownership was not a response to any other investments.
“Earvin is still going to be very connected with the Lakers,” Rosen said. “This really was just a smart business decision.”