In order to make sure LeBron would sign on the dotted line when NBA free agency opened on Sunday, Magic Johnson spent his Saturday night in Brentwood at James’ house.
Emphasizing their shared roots in the Midwest, Johnson talked to James about how playing in Los Angeles could be a smart move for his basketball career and his life after he’s done playing.
They talked about basketball, what the Lakers’ future could be, and how basketball could be used “as a doorway to the business world and a way to effect social change,” sources not authorized to speak publicly told the Los Angeles Times.
Following more than two hours of conversation, Johnson departed and left James with his thoughts. On Sunday evening, James agreed to a four-year deal worth $154 million that has an opt-out clause which will allow him to leave Los Angeles after the third year if he wants.
WIth James now in the fold, Johnson will likely turn his attention to filling out the rest of the Lakers roster with players who can help make Los Angeles a championship contender.
James reportedly didn’t mind that the Lakers weren’t a ready-made championship team and told Johnson he would help build them into one during their Saturday evening conversation.
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