3 reasons Los Angeles Lakers will make the 2019 NBA Playoffs
2. Magic Johnson is calling the shots
There’s a reason they call him Magic. The Lakers’ charismatic, fearless leader has taken this franchise on a whirlwind ride back to relevance in the year and a half since being handed the keys. Don’t think for a second he’ll be content with another lackluster campaign.
Johnson has been a savior for the Lakers. Since taking over for Jim Buss as the man running the show behind the scenes, he’s restored respect and dignity to one of the NBA’s most storied franchises. On top of drafting and cultivating top young talent, he wooed the best player in the world to Los Angeles. Seems like he’s got things under control in Hollywood.
No matter what this season throws at him, he’ll be prepared.
If the Lakers need to make a splash ahead of the 2019 NBA trade deadline, Magic will make it happen. Say a starter suffers an injury and a veteran needs to be signed off the streets. Johnson will undoubtedly find a capable contributor to fill the gap. Since taking the reins, it’s been far more highs than lows for Magic — expect more of the same in the coming months.
Johnson may not be on the court or calling the shots during games, but he’s making the moves that’ll keep this team in the hunt. He’ll swing deals, sign free agents and watch the prospects he’s drafted develop into playmakers. That’s how he’ll help the Lakers book their trip to the postseason in 2018-19.