The Lakers are formally unveiling Shaquille O’Neal’s statue outside their arena tonight. Also tonight: UCLA-Kentucky in the Sweet 16, which features NBA prospects Lonzo Ball, Ike Anigbogu, T.J. Leaf, De’Aaron Fox, Malik Monk and Bam Adebayo.
That makes an interesting choice for the NBA’s two highest-profile team presidents – the Lakers’ Magic Johnson and Knicks’ Phil Jackson (who coached Shaq in Los Angeles), both of whose teams are headed toward a high picks in the upcoming draft.
And the front-office heads are going different directions.
Arash Markazi of ESPN:
Confirmed guests for Shaq's statue unveiling today include Kobe Bryant, Phil Jackson, Jerry West, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Derek Fisher.
— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) March 24, 2017
Marc Stein of ESPN:
Hearing Magic Johnson, knowing UCLA/Kentucky is a scouting must first-hand, will reluctantly miss Shaquille O'Neal's statue ceremony tonight
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) March 24, 2017
Watching a single game in person is unlikely to swing anything. Both Johnson and Jackson could send scouts to watch UCLA-Kentucky live and then the presidents could watch video later.
But attending in person is ideal, and there are already questions about Jackson’s work ethic. This will only fuel them.
If nothing else, this is an opportunity for Johnson, new on the job, to establish an image. He can clearly juxtapose himself with the failing Jackson and establish himself as a diligent alternative. The Lakers hired Johnson at least in part due to his high profile, but that needn’t stop him from grinding now that he has the position. Anyone doubting him would respect that.
