Magic Johnson believes Bob Iger and Josh Kushner are the right people to guide the Lakers into their next championship era.
Magic Johnson has offered a strong endorsement of the Los Angeles Lakers’ prospective new owners.
Former Disney CEO Bob Iger and venture capitalist Josh Kushner agreed to purchase the Lakers from Mark Walter at a record $12.5 billion valuation, according to multiple reports. The deal remains subject to approval by the NBA’s board of governors.
Shortly after news of the agreement surfaced, Johnson congratulated Iger and Kushner before telling Lakers fans that the franchise would be in capable hands.
“Laker fans, you couldn’t have two better owners,” Johnson wrote on X. “I’ve known Bob personally for over 40 years — he has always loved the Lakers and basketball and he will bring championships back to LA.”
Magic’s endorsement carries weight
Johnson is not merely one of the greatest players in Lakers history. He remains closely connected to the organization and the Los Angeles sports community.
The five-time NBA champion spent his entire 13-season playing career with the Lakers and later briefly served as the team’s president of basketball operations. He also has ownership interests in several Southern California franchises, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Sparks and Los Angeles Football Club.
Apr 9, 2019; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los AngelesLakerspresident of basketball operationsMagicJohnsonspeaks to the media before the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY SportsHis confidence in Iger therefore offers fans some insight into the incoming ownership group, especially because Johnson said he has known the longtime entertainment executive for more than four decades.
Iger stepped down as Disney’s CEO at the end of 2026 after leading the company through two separate tenures. His extensive experience overseeing major entertainment properties, including ESPN, could prove valuable as the Lakers look to expand one of basketball’s most recognizable global brands.
Kushner is the founder of Thrive Capital and previously explored joining a potential bid for an NBA expansion franchise in Las Vegas. Purchasing the Lakers allows him and Iger to enter the league through an established organization instead.
Feb 22, 2026; Los Angeles, CA, USA;MagicJohnsonspeaks at unveiling of statue of former Los Angeles Lakers coach Pat Riley at the Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesA franchise entering another transition
The ownership change comes at a pivotal moment for the Lakers.
LeBron James left Los Angeles and signed with the Philadelphia 76ers this summer, officially shifting the franchise toward a new era centered around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. General manager Rob Pelinka also remade much of the roster by acquiring Walker Kessler and adding Quentin Grimes, Collin Sexton, Sandro Mamukelashvili and several other players.
Walter agreed to purchase a controlling interest in the Lakers from the Buss family at a $10 billion valuation in 2025. Iger and Kushner’s agreement would change control again after only one season while establishing another record for the sale of a professional sports franchise.
October 6, 2018; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los AngelesLakersgeneral manager Rob Pelinka speaks with president of basketball operationsMagicJohnsonat Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY SportsJeanie Buss is expected to remain the Lakers’ governor for at least five years, providing some continuity during the transition, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Johnson’s championship prediction will ultimately be determined by the new group’s willingness to invest in basketball operations and build around Dončić. Still, one of the most influential figures in franchise history believes the Lakers are being placed in the right hands.
