BREAKING NEWS: Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson Returns as Chief Basketball officer In a monumental announcement, Los Angeles Lakers owner Mark Walter family has officially declared that Magic Johnson Catchings the legendary Forward/Small Forward and long-time face of the franchise, will return to the organization in 2025 as the chief Basketball Officer Vs..……. view more

BREAKING NEWS: Los Angeles Lakers Legend Magic Johnson Returns as Chief Basketball Office

In a monumental announcement that has electrified the basketball world, the Los Angeles Lakers, under the ownership of the Mark Walter family, have officially confirmed the return of franchise icon Magic Johnson. The Hall of Famer will rejoin the organization in 2025 as the newly appointed Chief Basketball Officer, a strategic role that positions him at the heart of basketball operations for the team he helped define.

The news was revealed at a press conference held at Crypto.com Arena earlier today, where Lakers owner Mark Walter, flanked by General Manager Rob Pelinka and team president Jeanie Buss, spoke with enthusiasm about the franchise’s future under Magic’s renewed leadership.

“Magic Johnson is more than a Lakers legend — he is the Lakers,” said Walter. “His vision, basketball IQ, and deep love for this franchise make him the ideal leader to guide our next chapter. We’re honored to welcome him back home in a role that gives him real power to shape our future.”

A Full-Circle Return

Earvin “Magic” Johnson, who played for the Lakers from 1979 to 1991 and again briefly in 1996, is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. A five-time NBA Champion, three-time MVP, and 12-time All-Star, Magic’s dynamic style revolutionized the point guard position and helped define the Lakers’ iconic “Showtime” era.

Though his post-playing career included a brief stint as President of Basketball Operations from 2017 to 2019, Johnson left that position citing internal conflicts and a desire for more freedom. Now, with greater executive autonomy promised in his new role, insiders believe Johnson is set to have a much deeper and more sustained impact on team-building and organizational culture.

A New Vision for 2025 and Beyond

As Chief Basketball Officer, Johnson will oversee the entire basketball ecosystem of the Lakers franchise — from scouting and player development to trades, free agency, and coaching decisions. He will also play a critical role in mentoring young players and ensuring alignment between front office strategy and on-court performance.

In his own remarks, Magic expressed excitement about his return:

“The Lakers are in my blood. This city, this team — it’s family,” Johnson said. “I’ve watched from afar, and now I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work. We’re going to restore that championship standard and bring Showtime back to L.A.”

What’s Next for the Lakers?

This move comes at a pivotal time for the Lakers, who are in the midst of a roster overhaul following the aging of stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis. With a promising group of young players and draft assets in hand, Johnson’s return signals a bold shift toward a new era — one that blends his signature charisma and basketball brilliance with a modern approach to team building.

Industry analysts are already speculating that Magic’s leadership could attract high-profile free agents and re-establish the Lakers as a premier destination in the NBA.

Fan and League Reaction

The reaction across social media and the sports world has been immediate and overwhelmingly positive. Former teammates, current players, and fans alike have flooded timelines with praise, excitement, and nostalgia.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a brief statement calling the move “a major win for the league and a great moment for one of the NBA’s most storied franchises.”