Magic Johnson steps down as Lakers president without telling team owner Jeannie Buss in bizarre and shocking move
- Magic Johnson stepped down as Los Angeles Lakers president in a shocking move on Tuesday.
- Johnson announced the decision at an impromptu press conference and admitted he had not told Lakers owner Jeannie Buss yet.
- Johnson cited his desire to "go back to having fun" and working and mentoring other players in a less official capacity.
Magic Johnson on Tuesday informed reporters that he is stepping down as president of the Los Angeles Lakers in a bizarre and shocking move.
Johnson held an impromptu press conference to tell reporters of his decision. He said he had not informed Lakers owner Jeannie Buss of his decision.
"Somebody's going to have to tell my boss because I knew I couldn't be face-to-face and tell her ... I couldn't stand to tell her," Johnson said, according to The Athletic's Bill Oram.
Johnson cited his desire to mentor and comment on other players as a reason for his decision. Johnson had twice been fined for tampering, once for reportedly trying to recruit Paul George to the Lakers, and another for commenting on Giannis Antetokounmpo.
"I want to go back to having fun."
Johnson noted an incident where he was not able to work with Philadelphia 76ers forward Ben Simmons over fears of tampering after Simmons requested to work out with Johnson. On Tuesday, Johnson said he looked like the "bad guy" in the situation.
The move comes amid increased criticism of the Lakers season and Johnson's performance as team president. Johnson helped the Lakers land LeBron James as a free agent last summer, believed to be the first step in a resurgence for the franchise.
However, Johnson and GM Rob Pelinka drew criticism for their other free agency signings which included several other ball-handlers and non-shooters - players that typically have not fit well next to James. The Lakers reasoned they would lighten the load on James while playing differently than the Warriors.
After a slow start to the seaaon, Johnson reportedly
This is a developing story.