Magic Johnson reframes Davis, gives LeBron a big tip

At the end of a disappointing season to say the least, the Lakers want at all costs to bounce back next year, around the duo LeBron James – Anthony Davis. But how to proceed with the two stars? Magic Johnson gave his opinion on this, advising the King while tackling the interior.

36 games missed for Anthony Davis, 27 for LeBron James : In other words, the Lakers have not been able to rely heavily on their superstars in the regular season. The playoffs were also not very different, AD having missed two additional meetings. As for the winger, we felt he was still recovering.

In addition to renewing the workforce, the Angelinos will therefore also have to determine how to proceed with the two men. For Magic Johnson, there are not 36 solutions. The Hall of Famer, interviewed by Lakers Nation, did not go dead hand, notably scratching The Brow:

Give LeBron James and Anthony Davis a shooter. Also, tell AD he’s going to have to play more center now. You can’t allow him to say, “Hey man, I don’t want to play pivot.” No no no no no, first of all you’re with the Lakers and we’re trying to win.

The ears on the inside should ring after these words. Magic doesn’t appreciate a star making whims at the Lakers, especially if it keeps the team from being better in his opinion. However, the really important point in his eyes remains the management of the King, which must be reviewed. Even if it means changing his job!

I would put LeBron back a bit, too many things are being asked of him. You can’t ask LeBron to be the playmaker. It means you work hard, get the ball up, get everyone involved in the attack, so when can LeBron get some rest? You have to understand that we want LeBron to be fresh and fit for the playoffs. So let someone else take some of their responsibilities.

The Californian leaders are warned, a ballhandler in the lead is therefore a priority according to the five-time champion. LBJ’s season has shown that his body is not at the same level as before. Might as well maximize his remaining years by supporting him in a serious way, even if he will have to learn to brake a little.

For Magic Johnson, a change in approach to the LeBron and AD cases seems vital for the Lakers to return to the top next season. When we see the physical glitches that they had to overcome in 2020-21, we say to ourselves that it is a sensible opinion.