Magic Johnson is never hesitant about giving his opinions on the Lakers, and this time, he’s emphasizing that the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors have just placed the Western Conference on notice.
The Lakers icon, a five-time NBA champion and one of the greatest point guards of all time, turned to social media to comment on the deadline mayhem, complimenting both clubs for making moves that should have the rest of the league concerned. “With the trades the Lakers and the Warriors just made, if I’m any team in the West I wouldn’t want to see either one of them!” Johnson writes about X.
Magic Johnson is never hesitant about giving his opinions on the Lakers, and this time, he’s emphasizing that the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors have just placed the Western Conference on notice.
The Lakers, who made waves for acquiring Luka Dončić from the Mavericks during the trade deadline, added frontcourt depth to their team. Late Wednesday night, they completed another trade, acquiring center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets in return for rookie Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2031 unprotected first-round selection, and a 2030 pick swap. With Anthony Davis gone, the Lakers had a glaring void at center, and Williams–a youthful, athletic rim protector–fills a critical need as the team prepares for a lengthy playoff run.
The movements were forceful, but essential. The Lakers (29-19) are presently sixth in the West, while the Warriors (25-25) are 11th, still seeking to get into the playoff picture. Both clubs have suffered with injuries and poor play this season, but adding elite talent before the deadline sends a strong statement that they still think they can compete.
The time couldn’t be more perfect for a statement game. Thursday night’s battle between the Lakers and Warriors has quickly become one of the season’s most anticipated games. Los Angeles had already won the previous two encounters, including a 118-108 triumph during NBA Rivals Week, which included a strong effort from Davis prior to his trade.
Tip-off is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET on TNT, and with both teams making significant changes, this might be the first look at how the new lineups match up. Magic Johnson has seen enough of great Lakers teams, and if he backs this squad, the rest of the NBA should take notice.
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