Magic Johnson is one of the most iconic basketball players in history. He played for the Los Angeles Lakers for 13 seasons, and during that time he amassed an incredible collection of accolades, including five NBA championships. In this post, we’ll explore the question on many fans’ minds: How many rings does Magic Johnson have?
To answer that question, we’ll need to take a closer look at Johnson’s career and his contributions to the Lakers. We’ll also need to examine the teams he played on and the competition he faced throughout his career. So without further ado, let’s get started.
Magic Johnson’s Career
Magic Johnson was born Earvin Johnson Jr. in Lansing, Michigan, in 1959. He grew up playing basketball with his siblings and friends, and he quickly gained a reputation as one of the most talented players in the area. He attended Everett High School in Lansing, where he led the team to a state championship in 1977.
After high school, Johnson attended Michigan State University, where he continued to dominate on the court. In 1979, he led the Spartans to the NCAA championship and was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. Later that year, he was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers, where he would spend the next 13 seasons.
During his time with the Lakers, Johnson became one of the most beloved players in franchise history. He won five NBA championships, three NBA MVP awards, and was named an All-Star 12 times. He also helped revolutionize the way basketball was played, with his fast-paced, team-oriented style of play.
Johnson’s Contributions to the Lakers
There’s no denying that Magic Johnson was one of the greatest Lakers of all time. But what specifically did he bring to the team that helped them win so many championships? Let’s take a closer look.
First and foremost, Johnson was an incredible playmaker. He had a unique ability to see the court in a way that few other players could, and he was always looking for ways to get his teammates involved. His passing skills were legendary, and he averaged an incredible 11.2 assists per game over the course of his career.
Johnson was also a prolific scorer, averaging 19.5 points per game over his career. He had a deadly jump shot, but he was just as comfortable driving to the basket and finishing with a dunk or layup. And when he wasn’t scoring himself, he was setting up his teammates with easy baskets.
But perhaps Johnson’s greatest contribution to the Lakers was his leadership. He was a natural born leader, and his teammates looked up to him as a mentor and a friend. He was always willing to take the big shot or make the crucial pass, and he never shied away from his responsibilities as a team captain.
The Teams Johnson Played On
Of course, Johnson’s success with the Lakers wasn’t just due to his individual talents. He played on some truly great teams throughout his career, and he benefited from playing with some all-time greats.
In his early years with the Lakers, Johnson teamed up with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, one of the greatest centers in NBA history. Together, they formed an unstoppable duo, with Johnson providing the playmaking and Abdul-Jabbar providing the scoring. The Lakers won championships in 1980, 1982, and 1985 with this dynamic duo leading the way.
Later on, Johnson played alongside another all-time great: James Worthy. Worthy was a versatile forward who could score from anywhere on the court, and he and Johnson developed a close bond on and off the court. With Worthy by his side, Johnson led the Lakers to championships in 1987 and 1988.
Throughout his career, Johnson played with a number of other talented players, including Byron Scott, Michael Cooper, and A.C. Green. But no matter who his teammates were, Johnson always found a way to lead them to victory.
The Competition Johnson Faced
Finally, let’s take a look at the competition Magic Johnson faced throughout his career. There’s no denying that he played in one of the most competitive eras in NBA history, and he faced some truly great teams and players.
In the early 1980s, Johnson and the Lakers faced off against their biggest rivals, the Boston Celtics. Led by Larry Bird, the Celtics were one of the most dominant teams of the era, and their battles with the Lakers are still considered some of the greatest in NBA history.
Later on, Johnson faced off against Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. Jordan was just starting to establish himself as one of the greatest players of all time, and he and Johnson had some epic showdowns on the court.
And throughout his career, Johnson faced off against a number of other talented players, including Isiah Thomas, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Charles Barkley. But no matter who he faced, Johnson always rose to the challenge.
So, How Many Rings Does Magic Johnson Have?
After all that, you’re probably wondering: How many rings does Magic Johnson have? As I mentioned earlier, Johnson won five NBA championships during his career with the Lakers. Here’s a breakdown of each championship:
1980: The Lakers defeated the Philadelphia 76ers in six games to win their first championship with Johnson at the helm. Johnson was named the Finals MVP, averaging 21.5 points and 11.2 rebounds per game.
1982: The Lakers faced off against the 76ers once again, this time winning in six games. Johnson was dominant in the Finals, averaging 16.2 points, 10.8 assists, and 8.0 rebounds per game.
1985: After a few years of coming up short, the Lakers finally won another championship in 1985. They defeated the Celtics in six games, with Johnson once again earning Finals MVP honors.
1987: The Lakers faced off against the Celtics once again in 1987, and once again they emerged victorious. Johnson was incredible in this series, averaging 26.2 points, 13.0 assists, and 8.0 rebounds per game.
1988: Johnson’s final championship came in 1988, when the Lakers defeated the Detroit Pistons in seven games. Johnson was a force throughout the series, averaging 21.1 points, 11.6 assists, and 6.7 rebounds per game.
In conclusion, Magic Johnson is one of the greatest players in NBA history, and he won five championships during his time with the Lakers. But more than that, he was a leader, a playmaker, and a true icon of the sport. His contributions to the Lakers will never be forgotten, and his impact on the game of basketball will be felt for generations to come.