Lakers HoFer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Brushes Off Blame in Famous Beef After Losing Finals MVP to Magic Johnson: “The Real Issue Wasn’t With Me and Magic”

The Los Angeles Lakers are the most successful franchise in NBA history. The organization has been home to some of the greatest players of all time. With multiple dynasties and 17 championships, the purple and gold hold a story. However, their biggest rise was arguably during their showtime period. Led by Magic Johnson and Kareem, the prolific duo started a revolution. But there was a time they had some friction. Or so the world thought.

After giving the city of Milwaukee a championship, Kareem Abdul Jabbar moved to Los Angeles in 1975. For 4 years he couldn’t bring a title. However, it all changed when he got one of the best passers in NBA history. A rookie Magic Johnson came in and gave rise to the Showtime Lakers. His majestic intuition proved to be the greatest weapon for Kareem. Likewise, the duo made it to the NBA finals.

In his first season, the commander of the showtime helped Kareem start an era. However, controversy ran within the celebrations.

Kareem Abdul Jabbar clears Magic Johnson-Lakers drama

The master of the skyhook was having a great series in 1980. However, the finals took a pivotal turn. The all-time leading scorer went down with an injury in Game 5. With a 3-2 lead, the purple and gold lost their primary scorer. With their walls against the back, Magic Johnson provided one of the greatest performances in finals history. The rookie started at center and eventually played all 5 spots. Putting on 42 points, 17 rebounds, and 7 assists, LA became champions.

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Controversy ran when Johnson won the finals MVP as Kareem was the major favorite. However, the great center revealed there was never any rift between his partner. The issue was between Magic and then coach Paul Westhead.

Abdul-Jabbar said: “The real issue wasn’t between me and Magic. It was between Magic and Paul Westhead. After that victorious Final, both Magic and Paul were at career highs and confident of their skills.”

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There was room for just one, and the Lakers went with their point guard. And Buss made the greatest decision in franchise history. The 5-time champion became an altering player. He was the leader of one of the most entertaining basketball eras. His cheeky passes won over fans from all over the world. As for this duo, they won 5 chips as partners. With Kareem in the post and Magic running the show, Showtime was on almost every night.

Where do you rank Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Magic Johnson as a duo? Let us know your views in the comments below.