In a recent appearance on FS1’s “Speak,” basketball legend Magic Johnson voiced a controversial opinion: the NBA’s declining TV ratings are due to the lack of genuine rivalries among players and teams.
Johnson reminisced about the intense rivalry he had with Larry Bird and the Boston Celtics in the 1980s, a time when animosity fueled the game and captivated audiences.
Johnson pointed out that today’s players seem to get along too well, shaking hands and showing camaraderie off the court. He argued that this friendly atmosphere has stripped away the fierce competitiveness that once defined the league.
“They don’t hate each other,” Johnson said. “I hated Larry and every Celtic. I really don’t like you but you’re my little brother. Now I love you because you’re out of that green & white.”
The former Lakers star believes that this shift has led to a decline in viewership, as fans are no longer as invested in the drama and tension that rivalries bring. Johnson also criticized the current trend of load management, where star players sit out games to avoid injury, further reducing the excitement for fans.
While some may argue that the lack of hostility creates a healthier and more positive environment for players, Johnson insists that the NBA needs to rediscover its competitive edge to regain its former glory.
“It’s gotta get back to that,” he said. “And there’s a reason why the viewership is going down. And these guys better wake up and say ‘Hey, we gotta change this.'”
.@MagicJohnson breaks down why we no longer have rivalries in the NBA today
“They don’t hate each other. I hated Larry [Bird] and every Celtic. I really don’t like you [Paul Pierce] but you my little brother. Now I love you because you’re out of that green & white.” 😂 pic.twitter.com/yJyum6dxGH
— Speak (@SpeakOnFS1) December 19, 2024
