With the Feb. 23 NBA trade deadline inching closer, many Los Angeles Lakers fans have been on edge waiting to see if the team would make moves to shake things up in La La town. Two days before the trade deadline and things got shaken up in the Lakers' front office. LA Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss announced Earvin "Magic" Johnson would take over as President of Basketball Operations. The former Lakers star and NBA champion was brought on initially as an advisor to the organization. Johnson has been vocal about his vision on rebuilding the team back to its winning days.
The five-time NBA champion said it's a dream come true to take on such a large role for the organization he's been with since 1979. But what shocked fans the most was learning that Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak was "relieved from his duties."
Lakers fire GM Mitch Kupchak
In a statement posted on the Lakers website, Buss said the search is on for a new GM.
"Effective immediately, Earvin Johnson will be in charge of all basketball operations and will report directly to me. Our search for a new General Manager to work with Earvin and Coach Luke Walton is well underway and we hope to announce a new General Manager in short order," said Buss.
Buss went on to say she is grateful for the work Kupchak did over the years and wish him well.
Kupchak joined the Lakers' front office in 1986 after a 10 year career in the NBA. He took over for Jerry West in 2000.
Jeanie Buss announces other changes to Lakers organization
In addition to promoting Johnson and letting go of Kupchak, Buss also announced her brother and Lakers co-owner Jim Buss will no longer be responsible for "basketball personnel decisions." Jim will continue to serve as owner and will work together with his sister to execute their goal: to bring championships back to Los Angeles.
A goal near and dear to their father. The Lakers also parted ways with long time Lakers Vice President of Public Relations John Black. Jeanie Buss also said the organization is looking to fill the position immediately.
