Did Jerry West not want Magic? This question has intrigued basketball fans for decades, as it seems to defy the natural progression of a legendary player’s career. West, one of the greatest scorers in NBA history, was often overshadowed by his teammate and friend, Earvin “Magic” Johnson. This article delves into the reasons behind this intriguing question and explores the dynamics of their relationship.
Jerry West, born on July 14, 1938, in West Virginia, was a dominant force in the NBA during the 1960s and 1970s. With his exceptional scoring ability, defensive prowess, and leadership qualities, West led the Los Angeles Lakers to numerous NBA Finals appearances. However, despite his numerous accolades, including 14 All-Star selections and a Finals MVP award, he never won an NBA championship.
On the other hand, Magic Johnson, born on August 14, 1959, in Lansing, Michigan, joined the Lakers in 1979 and quickly became the team’s star player. Johnson’s charismatic personality, incredible playmaking ability, and infectious energy transformed the Lakers into a dominant force in the NBA. Under Johnson’s leadership, the Lakers won five NBA championships from 1980 to 1988.
The relationship between West and Johnson was a complex one. While they were close friends and teammates, there were also underlying tensions that seemed to hint at a deeper issue. One of the most intriguing aspects of their relationship was the question of whether West wanted Magic to succeed him as the Lakers’ star player.
Several factors could have contributed to the perception that West did not want Magic to take over. Firstly, West was a highly competitive player who had spent his entire career fighting for championships. The arrival of a new, young talent like Magic could have been seen as a threat to his status as the team’s leading scorer and leader.
Secondly, West was known for his stoic and reserved personality, which contrasted sharply with Johnson’s outgoing and charismatic nature. This difference in personalities could have led to a lack of chemistry between the two players, making it difficult for West to fully embrace Johnson as his successor.
Furthermore, the Lakers’ management at the time seemed to favor Johnson over West. The team invested heavily in Magic, giving him a lucrative contract and a significant role in the organization. This could have led West to feel undervalued and, consequently, less inclined to support Johnson’s rise to stardom.
However, it is essential to note that this perception may not be entirely accurate. West was known for his loyalty and dedication to the Lakers organization. He had a deep respect for Johnson’s talent and often praised him for his contributions to the team. Additionally, West and Johnson maintained a strong friendship off the court, which suggests that any tension between them was likely superficial.
In conclusion, while the question of whether Jerry West did not want Magic Johnson to succeed him remains a topic of debate, it is crucial to consider the complexities of their relationship. West’s competitive nature, differences in personalities, and the dynamics of the Lakers organization at the time may have contributed to the perception that he did not want Magic to take over. However, the evidence suggests that West had a deep respect for Johnson and their friendship transcended any perceived tensions.
