Feb 16, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; NBA legend
Magic Johnsonlaughs during the 2014 NBA All-Star Game Legends Brunch at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
To say the least, it has been a tumultuous week for the NBA and it’s public relations crew. By now, everyone has heard the remarks from Donald Sterling, which has created an firestorm. It’s quite possibly the NBA’s worst scandal if not all-time, certainly since Tim Donaghy. Despite the racist remarks directed and stemming from Magic Johnson, Magic might be the only way who can save this situation.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo, Magic and his partners have much interest in purchasing the Clippers from Sterling. As is, the NBA is in the midst of an investigation to determine whether it was actually Sterling’s voice on the recording and what punishment is fair.
“Magic’s absolutely interested,” one source closely connected to Johnson’s business interests told Yahoo Sports on Sunday night
Sterling’s comments were met head on by nearly everyone around the league. Michael Jordan and our own Kobe Bryant were noteworthy, but no stand was bigger than the Clippers themselves, who were plain red shirts instead of their warmups for Sunday’s game. With a game scheduled in Los Angeles Tuesday night, little is known what to expect.
For Magic, this is an opportunity he’s been longing for, regardless of the circumstances. Already owner of the Dodgers, Magic could take a big step toward a Los Angeles monopoly by purchasing the Clippers, which is a goal for him.
"Nevertheless, this is business and Magic’s willing to change colors and make himself a Clipper. Between the Dodgers and Clippers, Magic Johnson could be the face of two championship contenders.Magic could have it all.“This is 100 percent Magic’s plan,” a league official intimately involved in the buying and selling of franchises told Yahoo Sports."
For the Lakers and their fan base, it certainly would be more than a little awkward to see the man that is and always will be a face of your franchise owning their rival. But considering what Magic has went through, and how likeable a personality he has, I think fans will be happy to see him succeed.