Magic Johnson, the Hall of Fame point guard who helped the Los Angeles Lakers capture five NBA titles, is upbeat about the franchise’s new ownership.
The team was sold for roughly $12.5 billion to media mogul Bob Iger and venture‑capitalist Josh Kushner, a transaction that follows the $10 billion purchase of the club just 18 months earlier.
A Deep‑Rooted Connection
Having spent more than four decades in the Lakers family, Johnson says he knows Iger’s passion for basketball intimately. He recalls meeting Iger years ago and believes the new owners will prioritize winning.
Johnson’s own basketball pedigree includes a stint as Lakers president of basketball operations and a championship‑laden playing career that cemented his status as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.
The Roster Outlook
With LeBron James having moved on, the Lakers pin their hopes on a core that includes Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler. Johnson expects the trio to keep the team competitive, though he cautions that elite free‑agent signings will be crucial.
He added that he will step down as Lakers president if he cannot convince a top free agent to join the club within the next two free‑agency periods, underscoring the pressure he feels to deliver a title.
Beyond the court, Johnson’s involvement with other sports franchises, such as the Los Angeles Dodgers, illustrates his broader commitment to Southern California’s athletic landscape.