In the course of the Lakers’ failed regular season, we learned that Jeanie Buss consulted Magic Johnson very often for some advice. The Lakers owner is also doing the same with her former husband, Phil Jackson.
What is the nature of his discussions with the former coach, five-time NBA champion with the Californian franchise (in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2009 and 2010)?
“I have a great relationship with him”confirms Jeanie Buss for NBA website. “He spends half of his time in Los Angeles and half in Montana. So I see him for meals, breakfasts or coffees. I can always lean on him. He doesn’t have a position at the Lakers, so this is mostly philosophical advice. »
And for Magic? “He’s there whenever I need to talk to him. He’s been my friend forever. He’s probably the one, among the people I know, who loves the Lakers the most. He is precious, he knows basketball and loves to win. »
“My father used to say all the time: absolute power corrupts absolutely”
If the owner of the Lakers, daughter of Jerry, the former boss of the Lakers, never hesitates to lend an ear to listen to these two legends, whom she has known for decades, it is not only out of affection. It’s his method of running one of the most powerful franchises in American sports.
“Everyone has people in their life who we rely on to weigh the pros and cons, to make complicated decisions. My parents are no longer there, Kobe Bryant either, nor David Stern. Phil Jackson and Magic are people I’ve known for a long time, who know how I think. My leadership style is collaborative. »
That’s to say ? “Even though I’m the owner, I don’t impose my vision and I let people have their say. My father used to say all the time: absolute power corrupts absolutely. We are not under a dictatorship. It’s not just my opinion. I have to listen to all the voices. Then, at the end, I make the best decision for the Lakers. »