Few NBA franchises have as high of an expectation of winning as the Los Angeles Lakers. Over the franchise’s history, we’ve seen one of two things happen at the end of every year: Either the Lakers are really good, or they’re willing to do whatever it takes to join the elite teams in the league.
This is what makes Magic Johnson‘s comments on ESPN’s First Take on Tuesday so shocking. Johnson — who in addition to being the face of the team’s front office is a Laker legend who bleeds purple and gold — told ESPN’s debate embracers that he doesn’t necessarily think Los Angeles needs to make the playoffs this year to be successful.
“It’s going to be tough for us because the West is better, but I’m not gauging our team based on if we make the playoffs or not,” Johnson said. “As long as we get better, week-to-week, month-to-month, and keep growing.”
To be clear, Johnson is really optimistic about this Lakers squad. He isn’t backing down from his belief that Lonzo Ball is going to be a special player, while he called fellow rookie Kyle Kuzma “the steal of the draft.” Johnson also praised the talent already on the team, like Brook Lopez and the continuously-growing Brandon Ingram.
But it’s still a little surprising that someone who is as aware of what it means to be a Laker as Johnson is willing to have a slightly unconventional definition of success. Johnson understands that the Lakers are in a position where it’s best to play the long game and build a contender instead of trying to win a ring right now.
It’s a new mindset in Los Angeles, but seeing as how the Lakers haven’t made the postseason since the 2013-14 season, the fact that they’re moving forward at all under Johnson’s watch is encouraging.
(Via Silver Screen & Roll)
