Magic Johnson's time as the Los Angeles Lakers' president of basketball operations was cut short in April 2019.
What happened?
Johnson's leadership style was called into question by some employees, who described an unhealthy work environment.
He reportedly told staff that any of them could be replaced at any time.
Why it matters for Magic Johnson
This approach led to a clash with Tim DiFrancesco, the team's strength and conditioning coach.
DiFrancesco was ordered to collect body fat percentages of every player, despite explaining that this was no longer a key measure of fitness.
Magic Johnson allegedly told DiFrancesco, "I want it done, and I want it done by the end of the season."
What comes next?
After the disagreement, DiFrancesco left the organization.
Johnson has denied claims that he mistreated employees during his time as president.
He implied that the reports were baseless and that Lakers owner Jeanie Buss would have taken action if they were true.
Johnson said, "I never sat in an HR person's office for 35 years... Do you think Jeanie Buss will allow me to abuse employees?"
The incident occurred during Johnson's two-year stint as president, which began in February 2017.
He helped bring LeBron James to the Lakers and cleared salary-cap space to acquire Anthony Davis.
However, his front office also faced criticism for organizational inconsistencies.
Johnson's resignation in April 2019 was seen as a surprise move.
He had been a key figure in the Lakers' resurgence, but his leadership style was ultimately called into question.
The book "A Hollywood Ending: The Dreams and Drama of the LeBron Lakers" by Yaron Weitzman sheds light on Johnson's time as president.
It includes accounts from Lakers staff members, who describe a very different side of Johnson than his public image.
One Lakers assistant said, "Magic was who you got when the cameras were on... Earvin was who we saw."
Johnson's legacy as a player is still celebrated, with five NBA championships and three MVP awards.
However, his time as president of basketball operations will be remembered for its controversy.
The Lakers have moved on from Johnson's tenure, but the impact of his leadership style still lingers.
The team has undergone significant changes since his resignation.
The incident with DiFrancesco serves as a reminder of the challenges Johnson faced as president.
It highlights the importance of effective leadership in the NBA.