“Always Been a Jealousy”: After Magic Johnson’s Ecstatic Claim for LeBron James’ Lakers, $251,400,000 Deal for Anthony Davis Subdued by NBA Analyst

Major extensions have been a common sighting in the NBA this offseason. With the extension window for some major NBA superstars opening soon, the NBA world would be eager to see what the franchises offer them. One such superstar is Anthony Davis. Davis has been a star ever since he arrived in Los Angeles. He propelled the Los Angeles Lakers‘ championship run in 2020, also earning two All-Star nods in his time with the franchise.

However, his major contract with the Lakers is soon expiring. This opens up the extension window for the 8-time All Star, leading to a fascinating conversation about his extension deal. The analysts on NBA Today discussed this very deal. However, a comment from Lakers legend Magic Johnson stole the show.

Magic’s comment takes center stage over Anthony Davis extension talks

Anthony Davis has always been one of the most dominant bigs in the league. The 8-time All Star created an immense buzz upon his arrival in Los Angeles, also luring a significant contract. Davis signed a whopping five-year $189,903,600 contract with the LeBron James-led Lakers back in 2020. His contract also provided him an Early Termination Option in the 2024-25 season. With this in mind, the Lakers are expected to offer Davis a lucrative deal to keep him in Los Angeles.

Davis is expected to receive an offer of up to $267M for three years, making his existing deal a 5-year $251.4M contract. This spectacular deal was being talked about on NBA Today when a comment from Magic Johnson stole the show. In the comment, the Lakers legend mentioned, “He was the No.1 GM in the NBA this offseason. No question about it…Rob is going to be executive of the year,” referring to the Lakers’ General Manager, Rob Pelinka.

However, this was met with heavy criticism from veteran analyst Ramona Shelbourne. “You know what’s amazing about Magic though, he can say that, and I actually believe him there,” she said. She then went on to add, “The backstabbing and the ‘I am quitting because of Rob Pelinka…’ It’s pretty incredible to read that quote after this.”

Shelbourne further added some strong comments about the 63-year-old. “Magic is kind of a bottom-line guy. So, if you perform well, he’s going to compliment you…This discussion of Rob Pelinka as an executive, this has evolved since he’s gotten this job…there’s always been a jealousy there with Rob Pelinka getting this job,” she opined.

READ MORE: BREAKING: Anthony Davis to Opt-Out of Player Option and Resign With the Los Angeles Lakers

She also had some kind words for Pelinka, saying, “He should’ve gotten more votes last year as executive of the year, he didn’t get a lot of support there.”

So, how far are Shelbourne’s strong statements about Johnson backed up?

Magic Johnson had a questionable stint at the front office

Hailed as one of the greatest point guards of all time, Magic Johnson etched his name in the league’s history as a player. However, despite his retirement, he has served the NBA community in several ways. A few years ago, he served the Los Angeles Lakers as their President of Basketball Operations. However, his stint in the Lakers’ front office came to an ugly end.

Johnson stepped down from his role in just two years after taking office. His stint marked a confusing phase in the Lakers’ rebuild. He made several questionable moves but also made one significant signing.

Despite going playoff-free throughout his stint in the Lakers’ front office, Johnson signed The Chosen One, LeBron James, to join the franchise. However, after making further questionable moves to support the 19-time All Star, Johnson stepped down, giving way to Rob Pelinka.

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After Johnson stepped down, Pelinka immediately did what Johnson intended to do for a long time. He signed Anthony Davis as his first move after Johnson’s major decision. Now, three years after his signing, Davis is all set to extend his contract with the Lakers. Given Davis’ Early Termination Option on his contract, Pelinka will have a tough task of luring the 30-year-old to stay in Los Angeles with a significant deal.