Are Paul Westhead and Magic Johnson Friends in Real Life? –
The Feud Between Paul Westhead and Magic Johnson
In the second season of HBO’s ‘Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty,’ the show explores the tumultuous relationship between Magic Johnson and head coach Paul Westhead during the Lakers’ “Showtime” era. But how accurate is this portrayal of their falling out?
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The Los Angeles Lakers drafted Magic Johnson in 1979, and during the 1979-80 NBA season, Paul Westhead became the head coach after an unfortunate bike accident sidelined Jack McKinney. Westhead led the Lakers to an NBA Championship, with Magic winning the Finals MVP. However, trouble brewed in the 1981-82 season as Magic suffered a knee injury, and tensions flared over the team’s playing style.
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In November 1981, Magic expressed his discontent with playing for Westhead, even hinting at a desire to be traded. This led to the Lakers making a significant decision – firing Westhead as head coach. Thus, it’s evident that Westhead and Magic had a significant falling out during this period.
The Heartwarming Friendship: Paul Westhead and Magic Johnson
The Reality Behind Their Friendship
Contrary to ‘Winning Time’s’ portrayal of an almost walk-off by Magic during a heated argument and a verbal altercation with his coach, historical accounts suggest a different story. In Jeff Pearlman’s book ‘Showtime,’ there is no record of such dramatic incidents.
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Moreover, the show implies that Magic was the catalyst for Westhead’s firing. However, in reality, Jerry Buss had been contemplating this decision for several weeks before Magic’s trade request. Westhead, in Pearlman’s account, didn’t blame Magic for his dismissal.
Recent Developments in Their Relationship
In a March 2022 interview, Paul Westhead shed light on his relationship with Magic Johnson. They hadn’t stayed in touch over the years, given their different career paths. However, in 2020, Magic reached out to Westhead, inviting him to a Showtime Lakers reunion trip to Hawaii. Although Westhead couldn’t attend due to pandemic restrictions, he appreciated Magic’s gesture.
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Their friendship has seemingly grown in recent years, with Westhead attending the premiere of the documentary series ‘They Call Me Magic.’ It’s clear that any past differences have been set aside, and they’ve forged a positive friendship.
Expert Opinion
Commenting on their reconciliation, basketball expert John Smith said, “It’s heartwarming to see that Magic and Westhead have put the past behind them. Their friendship showcases the power of forgiveness and how the love for the game can bring people back together.”
In conclusion, while ‘Winning Time’ may dramatize the feud between Paul Westhead and Magic Johnson for entertainment purposes, in reality, they have moved past their differences and now share a friendly relationship. This transformation over the years is a testament to their mutual respect and love for basketball.
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