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Los Angeles' Magic Johnson steps down as Lakers president

By Connor Grott
Los Angeles' Magic Johnson stepped down as Lakers president Tuesday. He originally accepted the role in February 2017. File Photo by Lori Shepler/UPI
Los Angeles' Magic Johnson stepped down as Lakers president Tuesday. He originally accepted the role in February 2017. File Photo by Lori Shepler/UPI | License Photo

April 9 (UPI) -- Los Angeles Lakers president of basketball operations Magic Johnson will step down from his role with the organization.

Johnson held an impromptu press conference Tuesday night, according to The Athletic and ESPN, and announced his decision.

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"I think that with [team owner Jeanie Buss] and I, I want to always preserve our relationship," Johnson said. "And I think I had more fun when I was able to be the big brother and ambassador."

Johnson said his decision wasn't about Lakers head coach Luke Walton's job status. The former Lakers star said he will "return to community work and reaching out to players around the league to help in their development."

Johnson added that Buss wasn't aware of his choice to leave the organization.

"Jeanie doesn't know I'm standing here," Johnson said. "I was happier when I wasn't president [of the [Lakers].

"Somebody's going to have to tell my boss because I knew I couldn't be face-to-face and tell [Buss]."

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The Hall of Fame player joined the Lakers in an executive role in February 2017, replacing Mitch Kupchak and Jim Buss in the team's front office. Sources told ESPN that Johnson never fully committed to his role with the franchise and frequently was away from the team.

The Lakers conclude their regular season with a game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday night.

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