Four Years After Accusing Lakers Veteran of “Backstabbing”, Magic Johnson Puts End to Feud With Heaps of Praise

A gloomy shadow lurked over the Los Angeles Lakers last season. They started the season 2-10, historically bad considering they had playoff hopes. However, the front office turned the tables during the trade deadline. Much of the ground-breaking turnaround was credited to GM Rob Pelinka, who orchestrated the new-looking Lakers. After knocking on the Finals’ doors last season, the Lakers GM plunged into the off-season market, luring more talent to once again make the Purple and Gold a formidable force. His efforts were recognized, even by Lakers great Magic Johnson, who formerly thrashed him.

The LA Times had an opportunity to interview Magic Johnson after the record-breaking sale of the Washington Commanders that saw him become a part owner. After some questions about his latest ownership role, the talks shifted to the Lakers. Even though he doesn’t wear the colors anymore, Johnson is a devoted fan.

Magic Johnson drops huge praise on Lakers GM Rob Pelinka

The 5x NBA champion was questioned about Pelinka’s off-season decisions and whether they are enough for the Lakers to threaten the throne. According to Magic, Pelinka did an ‘outstanding’ job, worthy of a major award.

“I think he followed it up with another outstanding job, first from the trade deadline and then he kept it going in the summer. He did better than anybody in the summer. All the moves he made, he was the No. 1 GM in the NBA this offseason. No question about it. All the guys that we signed will help LeBron and the other guys because now we are deeper. Rob is going to be executive of the year,” Magic Johnson told LA Times. 

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The 12x All-Star heaping praise on Pelinka does come as a surprise. It was only four years ago that Johnson accused the Lakers GM of “backstabbing” him when he was a part of the franchise, as reported by ESPN. He also added, “If you are going to talk betrayal, it’s only with Rob.”

Despite having their differences, it might mean Magic is over the former feud. Now, as a fan of the Laker crest, he is looking forward to the upcoming season, as are all Lakers fans. The team’s exciting off-season additions have been the talk of Tinseltown.

Rob Pelinka’s colorful off-season decisions

Pelinka has indeed snatched up some admirable talents who are competent with Lakers basketball. As far as bringing back old faces, signing Austin Reaves to a new deal was his most popular decision so far. Additionally, he also resigned Rui Hachimura, a two-way forward who was vital in the Lakers’ playoff run last season.

After intense pondering, he made waves by signing Gabe Vincent, Jaxson Hayes, Taurean Prince, and Cam Reddish. All possess talents and skills that complement both LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Pelinka and the Lakers have made their intentions clear. The giants have grown tired of staying silent. It’s time to go on the offensive.

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Do you think the Lakers will find success with their newly constructed roster? Let us know your views in the comment below.