Magic Johnson Told Jeanie Buss He Wanted To Play For Detroit Pistons
[new_royalslider id=”142″]

Back in 1979, Dr. Jerry Buss bought the Los Angeles Lakers franchise and his first move as the new owner was about as good as any he made in his 33 years of ownership.

— Lakers Nation Summer Sale Is Here! Get 32% Off Orders More Than $20! Use Code: #TheFuture —

Buss selected Magic Johnson with the first overall pick in the 1979 NBA draft and forever changed the storied franchise as a result. Interestingly enough, Magic had other intentions telling Dr. Buss’ daughter, Jeanie, he was only going to stay in Los Angeles for three years.

Jeanie said the following about her first meeting with Magic in a post she wrote for CSQ.com:

“I showed him to the living room, and we chatted for a few moments. He told me matter-of-factly that he appreciated being drafted by the Lakers but that he was only going to stay for three years because he wanted to go home to Michigan and play for his hometown team – the Detroit Pistons.”

Incredible to think that Magic was set on going to the Detroit Pistons before meeting Dr. Buss. Ironically enough, the Pistons GM at the time, Jack McCloskey, offered the entire Detroit roster to Los Angeles for the Michigan State star. Obviously, the Lakers didn’t take the deal and the rest is history.

Dr. Buss told Jeanie not to worry via CSQ:

My dad didn’t bat an eye. He told me, “Jeanie, don’t worry. He may say that today, but the first time he puts on a Lakers’ uniform and steps out on the Forum floor, he is never going to leave.”

For lack of a better word, Dr. Buss was a genius when it came to making all the right moves for the Lakers franchise. Buss went on to win 10 NBA titles and became arguably the greatest owner in professional sports as a result.

— Think You’re The Biggest Lakers Fan? Take The Ultimate Fan Quiz! —

Every move the late owner made always seemed to pay off in one way or another. Some of the greatest players in NBA history wore a Lakers jersey during his time as the owner with the team acquiring players like James Worthy, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal and Pau Gasol.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Kobe Bryant On LeBron James, Championships – Also Says He’s 100%


Please enable Javascript to watch this video

You May Also Like

Lakers Rumors: Raptors D-League Coach Jesse Mermuys To Join Luke Walton’s Staff

While Luke Walton finishes up his obligations with the Golden State Warriors, he and the Los Angeles Lakers continue to work on filling out his coaching staff…

Video: Kobe Bryant Baseline Slam Dunk over Memphis Grizzlies

Last night’s Lakers victory over the struggling Memphis Grizzlies showcased several top-play…

Phoenix Suns to cut Vince Carter – Potenital Future with Lakers?

ESPN’s Marc Stein reported earlier today that the Phoenix Suns intend on…

Max Christie: Ankle Felt Good In Return To Action For Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers guard Max Christie missed the team’s final three games before the All-Star break with an ankle injury…