The LA Lakers, a staple of NBA trade rumors are likely to make more audacious moves with the arrival of Magic Johnson.
The NBA legend, who led the Lakers in their glory days in the 80s that established them as the world's most popular basketball team, is now the president of basketball operations.
The Lakers made the official announcement and Magic's reaction (h/t CBS). "Effective immediately, Earvin Johnson will be in charge of all basketball operations and will report directly to me," Jeannie Buss declared.
"It's a dream come true to return to the Lakers as President of Basketball Operations working closely with Jeanie Buss and the Buss family," said Earvin "Magic" Johnson. "Since 1979, I've been a part of the Laker Nation and I'm passionate about this organization. I will do everything I can to build a winning culture on and off the court. We have a great coach in Luke Walton and good young players. We will work tirelessly to return our Los Angeles Lakers to NBA champions."
It was also subsequently reported that the new GM is Rob Pelinka, better known as Kobe Bryant's agent.
It seems like Magic quickly got to work as the reports came out about Lou Williams now being traded to the Houston Rockets. The report from Calvin Watkins of ESPN:
"The Los Angeles Lakers have agreed to trade sixth man Lou Williams to the Houston Rockets in exchange for swingman Corey Brewer and an unprotected first-round pick, sources told ESPN, confirming multiple reports," Watkins wrote.
The Lakers have been clear from the start that they are looking for a first round pick in exchange for Lou Williams. There were many offers but they were mostly from contenders who would likely have low first round picks (or none at all).
There is a possibility that Williams will face off against DeMarcus Cousins, now that both of them are out of the Pacific Division. "If and when Williams passes his physical, he could be available to play in the Rockets' first game of the second half of the season at the New Orleans Pelicans on Thursday night," Watkins noted.
Another possible reason that the Lakers traded Williams is to mount their tanking effort. They need to be in the top three in order to keep their pick. Pundits point that Williams has been the main reason why the team has won games.