Lakers Rumors: Kawhi Leonard Meeting Will Involve Magic Johnson
Kawhi Leonard is going to give the Los Angeles Lakers a real shot to acquire his services this summer. The reigning NBA Finals MVP’s people will reportedly meet with the Lakers during free agency, and we’ve got even more details emerging about that meeting.
Long-time Lakers writer Brad Turner tweeted the following on Friday:
Sources. Kawhi Leonard’s people plan on meeting with Lakers president Jeanie Buss and Magic Johnson next week when free agency starts. Will most likely be in LA
— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) June 28, 2019
So, first off, Turner reports Leonard’s “people” will be meeting with the Lakers, so we’re not sure if that means solely his representation or Leonard and his reps. But, regardless, the big news here is that Magic Johnson will be involved.
Johnson resigned as the team’s president of basketball operations in April and is clearly not happy about how he was treated. Regardless of that, he’s still willing to help the Lakers acquire arguably the best free agent on the market this summer.
It should be interesting to see how this plays out. Leonard appears to be focused on the Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers and remaining with the Toronto Raptors in free agency.
UPDATE: It looks like LeBron James and Anthony Davis plan to be involved as well:
With the Lakers now expected to land a Kawhi Leonard meeting, a source tells @TheAthletic that LeBron James AND Anthony Davis are planning on being part of the formal pitch.
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) June 28, 2019
UPDATE II: This might mean Johnson can’t be involved:
Magic Johnson says he will help the Los Angeles Lakers in free agency in any way he can, but he is not permitted by NBA rules to be part of official team meetings with prospective free agents. Johnson said he has not been asked by the Lakers or owner Jeanie Buss to participate.
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) June 28, 2019
Johnson says “A friend of mine called and says Kawhi wants to meet with you,” Johnson told ESPN. “I said no problem. I’m available if that’s what this man wants.
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) June 28, 2019
“But I got a great life. I’m not trying to mess with anybody’s job.”