How Magic Johnson ‘changed his role’ as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar declined cemented his legacy as an all-time great

Magic Johnson knew he had to step up for the LA Lakers

In the late 1980s, Abdul-Jabbar was still a very good basketball player. However, he was in the latter stages of his career, which meant he was not as explosive, and his offensive impact lessened.

The Lakers had no shortage of talent on the roster, with James Worthy as another standout. However, it was Johnson who took over as the number one option.

It was proof that Johnson would do everything he could to help the team. He was spectacular in the late 80s, cementing himself as a dual threat with his scoring and playmaking. Johnson became a player whom many modern players and teams try to emulate with Showtime basketball.

“It’s not that I’m playing differently, it’s just my role has changed. Five or six years ago, we had a high-powered offense centered on Kareem, Jamaal Wilkes when he was playing, and Norm Nixon,” Johnson said in a 1987 interview.

“Even two years ago, Byron Scott, James Worthy. Kareem is up there in age, and I don’t want to put that burden on him anymore. Now, I must change my role to make us a better team.”

Magic Johnson was always capable of being the go-to guy

Johnson carved out a reputation for himself as the purest of playmakers. He did so while leading the Lakers’ Showtime era. He was the driving force for that system as he thrived on fast breaks.

Before that, he was a prolific scorer during his youth. However, he switched up his style after realizing everyone is happier when they get to score.

“Ok, I’m gonna start just passing and doing all the things. That’s where it came from. Out of the pain of parents being mad that their son didn’t score,” Johnson said to The Athletic.

That made him one of the most unique players in basketball history. He could dominate a game, but he loved playmaking. It was a fantastic mindset to have, and that made him one of the sport’s best point guards.