Magic Johnson opened up about conversations the Lakers had with the Pelicans to acquire Anthony Davis, saying he doesn't believe New Orleans had fair negotiations.
When asked if the Pelicans negotiated in good faith regarding a potential Davis trade, Johnson simply said, "No. But at the end of the day, what happened happened."
Here’s what Lakers team president Magic Johnson said about whether the team was entering good faith negotiations. The question was not specifically phrased about New Orleans, but it was implied.
— Kyle Goon (@kylegoon) February 10, 2019
“No. ... But at the end of the day, what happened happened.” pic.twitter.com/1Jahd32ZmF
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The Lakers president also said it will be business as usual when it comes to the Lakers' plans with free agency, and the failed Davis deal isn't going to change how the franchise approaches making deals in the offseason.
“That’s not going to change our plans this summer. It’s a great (free agency) class and we just want to get one of them,” Davis said, via ESPN .
Reports ahead of the trade deadline revealed the Lakers were willing to offer several members of their squad, including Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, Brandon Ingram and draft picks to get Davis. But the Pelicans reportedly kept upping the deal until Los Angeles backed down.