Magic Johnson Praises Lakers’ Youth-Centered Offseason Revamp
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Los Angeles Lakers icon Earvin “Magic” Johnson expressed strong approval of the franchise’s offseason moves, saying the 17-time champions successfully became “younger, more athletic, and faster” ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
In a social-media post, Johnson highlighted the sign-and-trade that brought 24-year-old center Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz as the summer’s cornerstone transaction. The 7-footer, secured at the cost of multiple draft selections, is expected to anchor the paint for a roster now built around Luka Dončić following LeBron James’ departure in free agency.
Johnson also applauded the club’s other additions: two-time All-Defensive guard Matisse Thybulle; guards Collin Sexton and Quentin Grimes; forward Sandro Mamukelashvili; and wing Ziaire Williams. He singled out Sexton’s speed, Grimes’ two-way potential, and Mamukelashvili’s shooting as valuable upgrades, while noting rookie Cameron Carr’s strong Summer League showing.
General manager Rob Pelinka retained restricted free agent Austin Reaves and rounded out the rotation with players who can defend multiple positions, a strategy aimed at withstanding the NBA’s 82-game grind.
Despite Johnson’s optimism, Los Angeles is still searching for a starting-caliber forward who can space the floor and guard multiple positions. League sources said the Lakers have maintained regular contact with free agent Jonathan Kuminga. Because of salary-cap constraints, any deal for the former Warriors and Hawks forward would require a sign-and-trade with Atlanta.
The retooled Lakers open training camp later this fall, looking to blend their new pieces around Dončić and challenge for a place atop the Western Conference.
Source: LakersNation.com
