Los Angeles Lakers: 10 most disappointing seasons in franchise history

8. The 1993-1994 Los Angeles Lakers’ losing season in Magic’s one season coaching

When Magic Johnson was hired to be the coach of the Los Angeles Lakers many fans were excited because they felt he could bring the energy and excitement to coaching that he brought as the leader of the championship Showtime teams of the 1980s. But in his first season coaching, it was obvious very quickly that would not be the case.

This season was a disappointment because many believed Magic could change the culture on a team that lacked an identity since he was the point guard, and he bailed before that came close to happening. They failed to even make the playoffs in a season that included Magic’s depressing stint as head coach.

His time as head coach was fairly similar to his recent time as an executive for the Lakers, just when things got tough he left as quickly as he arrived. He only lasted 16 games as coach, and only won 5 of them.

When they missed the playoffs in this season, they snapped a streak of 17 straight years going to the postseason. This team was not stacked with talent and did not have championship expectations, but it still included Vlade Divac in his prime, James Worthy on his last legs, and a rookie fan-favorite Nick Van Exel.

That cast could only lead them to a 33-49 record and an offensive and defensive rating that ranked in the bottom half of the league. It is hard to believe that the great Jerry West is the one that put this team together.