Magic Johnson abruptly resigns as Los Angeles Lakers’ president of basketball operations

Magic Johnson abruptly quit as the Los Angeles Lakers’ president of basketball operations Tuesday night, citing a desire to get back to the simpler life he enjoyed before taking over the franchise just over two years ago.

READ MORE: TV announcer calls out LeBron James as Knicks down Lakers 124-123

Johnson didn’t tell owner Jeanie Buss or general manager Rob Pelinka before he stepped in front of reporters about 90 minutes before the final game of the Lakers’ sixth consecutive losing season.

Johnson didn’t directly tie his decision to the future of coach Luke Walton, who was widely expected to be fired by Johnson soon. But Johnson repeatedly mentioned Buss’ affinity for Walton and Johnson’s desire not to cause upheaval between them.

READ MORE: ‘Just like Mike’: LeBron James overwhelmed after passing Michael Jordan, his hero

Johnson also says he’s tired of being fined by the NBA for tampering.