Magic Johnson rips Lakers again
by David Leon Moore, USA TODAY Sports
As a minority owner, Magic Johnson is busy helping to improve the Los Angeles Dodgers.
But always seems to have time to rip his old team.
The former Los Angeles Lakers great, who was a part of five NBA championships in the 1980s, has been critical of the team’s play this season before and after the hiring of Mike D’Antoni as coach. At a news conference to introduce pitcher Matt Greinke, who the Dodgers just signed to a six year, $147 million deal, Johnson was again vocal about the state of the Lakers.
“First, we’ve got to understand what the strategy is to win every game,” he said. “Every game you have to have a different strategy to win because the teams are different. They have to be more consistent on defense. That’s the main thing. We can score points but the defense is just breaking down.”
The latest example of the defense breaking down came against Orlando on Sunday, to which Johnson said, “How does the Orlando Magic score 40 points in the fourth quarter in Staples Center? Are you kidding me? That should never happen.”
When asked if there should be another coaching change, Johnson balked. But he did say things about the coach should change.
“Look, the season has already been disrupted one time,” he said. “Another change would just blow the whole team up. What the coach has to do is say I have a certain philosophy but I don’t have the players to play that scheme and that system. But what I do have is two of the best 7-footers in the game. When Gasol was on that block, he averaged 18 points. He shot 53%. And he is the best passing big man in the game. But you have him at the free throw line. That makes no sense. That’s not his game. His game is catch it on the low block, face his man and make a move to the cup. He has great moves.
“I’ve got to adjust my system a little if I’m the coach.”
Adjusting the system is something that might be crucial if the Lakers … [For more on Magic Johnson doesn't miss a chance to rip the Lakers, click here.]
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