Magic Johnson Steps Down As Lakers President Of Basketball Operations: How’d It Go Wrong?

The Los Angeles Lakers at one time were a franchise to be feared and had a star-studded class of retired jerseys hanging above them. Some of the greatest players to have ever played basketball at one point in time played for the Lakers. Some of the legendary names such as Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and the list goes on. And it doesn’t stop with their players: the whole franchise was made to be run this way, with great ownership from people such as Jerry Buss. 

Later on, former legend Johnson took control of the team, pledging that he would bring the Lakers back. Johnson convinced one of the greatest players ever in Lebron James to join the Lakers last year. Fans speculated a possible comeback for the Lakers. The team had been in a drought lately, failing to make the playoffs and losing at home badly. Many thought that this could be the beginning of a change in LA.

Fast forward one more season: James has missed the playoffs for the first time in almost 15 years while Johnson has decided to step down.

What Went Wrong?

Many people have blasted Johnson for his lack of success as being the president of the organization. Several reports came out saying he doesn’t know what he’s doing, or that he’s just a bad president in general. Reports had came out about James indicating that he had been playing hurt during the season and came back earlier than he had to and tried to force the playoffs.