ESPN.com · Apr 10, 2019
Sources: Magic exit stuns LeBron; Pelinka to stay
LeBron James was stunned to learn of Magic Johnson's decision to step down as the Los Angeles Lakers' president of basketball operations, a source with knowledge of James' thinking told ESPN's Ramona Shelburne on Wednesday.
But despite Johnson's abrupt resignation, James stands behind Lakers owner Jeanie Buss and the organization, the source told Shelburne.
The team is still assessing Johnson's decision, but general manager Rob Pelinka will stay in his job, and, if anything, his power will grow, sources told Shelburne.
Johnson sent shockwaves through the Lakers franchise Tuesday night when, in a teary-eyed announcement before the team's season finale, he announced his "difficult decision."
