SUMMARY
- Magic Johnson revealed that he's supporting the Mavericks in this year's finals.
- The 5x NBA Champion claimed he wanted a museum to be built in his name just like Larry Bird.
Magic Johnson is popularly known as the greatest point guard there ever was. Under his tenure, the Los Angeles Lakers were nearly unbeatable in the playoffs. Every time Magic stepped on the floor, there was bound to be an electrifying performance. That’s why his Lakers era with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, James Worthy, and Byron Scott was known as the “Showtime Lakers” era.
Recently, Johnson made an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live and he revealed who he’s in support of for this year’s NBA Finals. Between the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks, he chose the Mavericks. He said, “Of course, of course [I’m rooting for the Mavericks] I’m a Laker. You know, I still have flashbacks with Larry [Bird] wearing the hot pants we used to wear.”
Historically, the Celtics and Lakers have won the most NBA titles since the league was established. Obviously, if the Celtics win the finals this year, it would mark their 18th title thus breaking the record tied with the Lakers.
Magic Johnson drops hints for LA to establish a museum for him
Over a month ago, Larry Bird was honored with a museum in Indiana. While many wonder why Indiana? Bird was born in West Baden Springs, Indiana. Even though Bird played with the Celtics his entire career, Indiana always had a special place in his heart. Following his career, the 3x NBA Champion even coached the Indiana Pacers for three seasons.
Larry Legend back in Terredise for the opening of the Larry Bird Museum!#MarchOn pic.twitter.com/9SfCGV2Ngp
— Indiana State Basketball (@IndStBasketball) May 30, 2024
Kimmel asked Johnson if his former rival cared about the Celtics. “All Pacers, man. He don’t care about the Celtics… he was probably upset when the Pacers lost [this year]. I don’t know if he dislikes them [but Magic and Kimmel agreed that he probably isn’t a fan of the Celtics anymore].”
Turns out, Johnson was invited to Bird’s museum opening but he couldn’t free up his schedule to attend it. Hilariously, the 1979 NBA Draft’s 1st overall pick said, “I was invited, but I sent a video… to congratulate him, of course. And then I’m still waiting on mine [his own museum to be opened in LA].” Earvin [Magic] also suggested that he would like two museums to have one over Larry.
Magic Johnson chimes in on Dan Hurley possibly becoming the Lakers’ next coach
Recently, the Lakers reportedly showed interest in acquiring UConn’s Dan Hurley as their next head coach. Hurley has tremendous experience in the coaching scenario, and he would probably be a great fit for the Lakers, according to Magic Johnson. He commented on X saying, “I’m so excited and thrilled! This would be a game changer for the Lakers organization, LeBron, AD, the rest of the Laker players, Laker Nation, and the NBA! Coach Hurley can coach his b**t off lol.”
I heard the great news that Lakers Owner Jeanie Buss and GM/VP of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka have had conversations with back-to-back NCAA champion and current UCONN Head Coach, Dan Hurley, about becoming the next Lakers Head Coach!
I’m so excited and thrilled! This would…
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) June 6, 2024
Hurley recently won back-to-back national championships with UConn and has big hopes for the Huskies. However, the Lakers are bound to offer a deal he won’t be able to resist. Amongst the candidates being discussed, Hurley has the best record to lead the Lakers to a title soon.