Magic Johnson: Lakers 'need to be younger, more athletic'

June 15, 2026 - 00:43

Lakers legend Magic Johnson has weighed in on the team's current roster, stating that the organization needs to prioritize youth and athleticism to return to championship contention. In a recent interview, Johnson did not hold back his assessment, pointing out that the Lakers' current makeup lacks the speed and explosiveness needed to compete with the top teams in the Western Conference.

"We need to be younger, more athletic," Johnson said. He emphasized that while experience is valuable, the modern NBA demands a faster, more dynamic style of play. Johnson's comments come as the Lakers struggle to find consistency, with an aging core and a roster that has often looked a step slow against younger, more energetic opponents.

The Hall of Fame point guard, who won five championships with the Lakers, suggested that the front office should focus on acquiring players who can run the floor and defend multiple positions. He did not single out any specific players but made it clear that the team cannot rely solely on star power to overcome its deficiencies. Johnson's critique carries weight given his history with the franchise and his deep understanding of what it takes to win in Los Angeles. The Lakers now face the challenge of reshaping their roster to meet the demands of a league that increasingly values speed and versatility.