How Successful Can Magic Johnson Be?

Los Angeles Lakers fans couldn’t be more thrilled by the team’s latest move, and it wasn’t on the court. Laker legend Magic Johnson has been named the President of Basketball Operations as longtime general manager Mitch Kupchak was fired.

Johnson has already made a splash in his short tenure, trading the team's leading scorer Lou Williams to the Houston Rockets, he and is reportedly in trade talks with another NBA legend in the front office, Larry Bird, to acquire perennial All-Star Paul George from the Indiana Pacers.

"Everything happened so fast," Lakers coach Luke Walton told ESPN DIS). "The initial thought is why do it right before the trade deadline, but Magic came in and we got to work right away."

Speculation surrounding who the Lakers next superstar will be has persisted for quite some time. With Johnson now at the helm, this could happen sooner than later. The beloved Hall of Famer has already had success operating a professional team with the LA Dodgers. Since acquiring the team as a part owner, the Dodgers have won four straight division championships.

Related Link: McGregor Vs. Mayweather Superfight Could Be Huge For Las Vegas

It is no doubt that superstars looking to change teams will now consider the Lakers as a viable option; all-stars Russell Westbrook, Chris Paul and Anthony Davis have all been in the conversation. However, some haven't been convinced that Magic's star power alone will bring in a new wave of superstars.

Johnson could also benefit from some homegrown talent, UCLA’s rise as a serious contender to win an NCAA championship, and projected No. 1 pick and LA native Lonzo Ball likely entering the draft this year, could be a potential option.

"He's going to come in here and try to make us better, get us back to winning," Lakers guard Jordan Clarkson said.

Image Credit: By Neelix at English Wikipedia (Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons.) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons