According to Bill Oram, Johnson "ignored the pleas of the coaching staff that he retain" the two bigs following the signing of LeBron James. Magic then opted and decided to add JaVale McGee, Michael Beasley and Lance Stephenson.
While Buss has been an ardent backer of Walton, she has also empowered Johnson, who has been less resolute in his support. His efforts have all worked against his coach rather than with him. After delivering James in July, Johnson ignored the pleas of the coaching staff that he retain Brook Lopez and Julius Randle. Instead, he signed controversial and limited journeymen JaVale McGee, Michael Beasley and Lance Stephenson
This season, Lopez is averaging 12.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game for the Bucks and is shooting a career-best 36.7 percent from deep. On the other hand, Julius Randle is averaging 20.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game for the Pelicans.
While it is looking very unlikely that the Lakers will make the playoffs, a lot of pressure is on Rob Pelinka and Magic Johnson to acquire a big level talent in free agency.
Photo: Getty Images