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Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson is reportedly interested in leading the ownership of a potential NBA expansion franchise in either Las Vegas or Kansas City. The Hall of Famer and five-time NBA champion could join forces with investment groups to bring a new team to one of these cities.

According to Jack Bezants of the Daily Mail, Johnson’s passion for the Lakers previously made him hesitant to own another NBA team. However, his stance appears to be shifting. Sources told the outlet that multiple investment groups in Las Vegas have expressed interest in partnering with the former Lakers great.

Johnson, who has extensive experience in sports ownership, is seen as a strong contender to lead an expansion project. He has stakes in several professional teams, including the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball and the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks. His business acumen and successful track record make him a valuable asset for any ownership group.

Las Vegas has been a top contender for NBA expansion in recent years. The city has demonstrated its viability as a sports market with the success of the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights and the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders. The NBA has also hosted its annual Summer League in Las Vegas, further solidifying its ties to the city.

Kansas City, while less prominent in expansion discussions, has a rich basketball history. The city was home to the Kansas City Kings before the franchise relocated to Sacramento in 1985. Kansas City’s T-Mobile Center and passionate fan base make it a potential candidate for an NBA team.

The league has yet to announce any official plans for expansion, but NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has acknowledged the possibility. In recent statements, Silver mentioned that the league is evaluating multiple markets and weighing the logistics of adding new teams.

Magic Johnson’s involvement could bring significant star power to the project, helping to generate excitement and attract sponsors. His leadership has been instrumental in building winning teams across different sports, and he remains an iconic figure in basketball.