After the Luka Doncic-led Los Angeles Lakers took down the Denver Nuggets on Saturday, team legend Magic Johnson is convinced the Purple and Gold have what it takes to be the best team in the Western Conference.
Johnson shared as much on social media, while heaping praise on Doncic and the Lakers following the 23-point blowout of the Nuggets.
Doncic had his best game as a Laker so far to lead the team to the 123-100 victory, finishing with a game-high 32 points, along with 10 rebounds and seven assists. The Slovenian star also played a big role defensively with four steals and a block.
Following the contest, Johnson immediately took to social media to give his analysis of the Lakers and express his belief that they can make it all the way to the West Finals if they keep playing like they did on Saturday.
“Big win for the Lakers tonight!” Johnson exclaimed. “This game proves that Luka, LeBron [James], and [Austin] Reaves can thrive in JJ Redick’s offense— and Rui [Hachimura] helped out a lot tonight too. It was a great performance on both ends of the court.
“If the Lakers keep this up, they have a real shot at playing in the Western Conference Finals!”
Big win for the Lakers tonight! This game proves that Luka, LeBron, and Reaves can thrive in JJ Redick’s offense— and Rui helped out a lot tonight too. It was a great performance on both ends of the court. If the Lakers keep this up, they have a real shot at playing in the…
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 23, 2025
Magic Johnson also commended the Lakers’ offensive capabilities in another post, noting that they “have a lot of offensive firepower.”
The Lakers improved to 34-21 on the season with the win against the Nuggets, which is good for the No. 4 seed in the West.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77)
© Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images
Considering that they have two of the best players in the NBA in Luka Doncic and LeBron James, there is no doubt they are legitimate threats in the West. However, whether or not Johnson’s claim comes true remains to be seen.