Why the LA Lakers Championships are Often Referenced as 'Magic Johnson Championships'

When discussing the Los Angeles Lakers's NBA championships in the 1980s, it often feels as though they are almost exclusively associated with Magic Johnson rather than Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. This article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of why this is the case, exploring historical context, team dynamics, and individual performances.

Historical Context: A League in Need of a Saviour

In the late 1970s, the National Basketball Association (NBA) faced significant challenges. Rating levels were relatively low, and there was an elephant in the room: the league was perceived to be"too black" by some media and fans. Additionally, there was a prevalent issue with drug abuse within the NBA, particularly involving cocaine. Against this backdrop, the emergence of players like Magic Johnson played a pivotal role in revitalizing and elevating the NBA.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: The Prototypical Star

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was indeed a star, and remains one of the greatest centers in NBA history. He led the Lakers and won titles with his superb skills in scoring and defense. However, when Magic Johnson joined the Lakers in the mid-1980s, the team dynamics changed dramatically. Magic became the focal point of the offense, steering the Lakers toward success.

Early Years and the NBA's Challenges

Kareem's career with the Lakers began in 1979, coinciding with a period when the league's popularity and financial health were at dire straits. On the other hand, Magic Johnson was drafted in 1979, and his presence breathed new life into the franchise. The Lakers under Johnson made their mark, earning a rings and sharing the spotlight, which had previously been largely on Kareem.

Team Dynamics and Championship Success

It is often argued that if Magic Johnson had never joined the Lakers, it is likely that Kareem would have retired with one championship. The Lakers experienced significant success with Magic Johnson, and he played a crucial role in the team's championship runs from 1980 onwards. Worthy-Worthy (James Worthy and Magic Johnson) teams, notably the 1988 champions, were well-documented for their offensive prowess and balanced team play.

The Lakers experienced considerable success during the 1980s, with Magic Johnson being named Finals MVP three times. His consistent play and leadership during the team's championship runs were key factors in the Lakers' victories. In the 1985 Finals, Magic Johnson's clutch performance sealed the MVP award for that year, despite Kareem's overall dominance on the team that season.

Ambition and Legacy

While Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's contributions to the Lakers cannot be overstated, it is often the achievements of Magic Johnson that capture the public's attention. The 1987-1988 back-to-back championships are often considered some of the Lakers' most talented teams, but they were also heavily reliant on the vision and leadership of Magic Johnson.

The Lakers with Magic Johnson on the roster achieved a level of success that might not have been possible without him. The team gained more popularity and success in part due to his dynamic play, leadership, and championship wins. The spotlight has traditionally been on Magic Johnson, making it difficult to view the Lakers' championships in the 1980s as solely Kareem's accomplishments.

Conclusion

While Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is certainly a cornerstone of the Lakers' championship legacy, the narrative often centers around Magic Johnson. This is a combination of his star power, the era in which he was active, and the specific dynamics of the teams he led. It is important to acknowledge both players' contributions and the unique impact of the 1980s Lakers teams, but the lasting image of these championships is often closely tied to Magic Johnson's legacy.