As the Lakers enter a new season, Buss bets big on his players and children; an on-court injury threatens the team's future.
Following Earvin's lackluster return, Pat and West angle to trade for a new star player, while Buss courts a figure from his past.
In the 1970s, Larry Bird rises from a small-town boy to a position as a sought-after player.
Magic Johnson's record contract causes resentment in the dressing room and on the court.
Superstar Earvin Magic Johnson and Coach Westhead clash; Jerry West picks up the pieces.
Tensions reach a new peak between the Lakers and Celtics, especially between Magic Johnson and Larry Bird, during the 1984 NBA Finals.
A dramatic look at the glitz and glamour of 1980s Los Angeles and the rise of the NBA's Lakers, Dr. Jerry Buss and Magic Johnson.
In 1979, businessman Jerry Buss stakes his fortune on the purchase of the NBA's lackluster Los Angeles Lakers; the team's coach, Jerry West, bristles at the prospect of drafting college phenom Earvin Johnson, who has been given the moniker "Magic."
After giving coach West carte blanche with the Lakers roster, Buss attempts to charm Red Auerbach; Earvin's efforts to impress the women in his life fall flat; Claire's mandate to get creative brings conflict with Buss' daughter, Jeanie.
Leaving the Lakers to deal with the fallout of coach West's shocking announcement, Buss travels to Las Vegas and soon becomes entangled with a dangerous foe; Earvin finds himself alone in a new city; Pat Riley seeks out a new place within the team.
The Lakers prepare for the opening game against the Clippers; Kareem doubts his place on the team.
Tragedy strikes the Lakers coaching staff, adding to Buss' mounting list of professional, personal and financial problems.
As the Lakers hit the road, Dr. Buss makes a dangerous bid with coach Westhead.
As the Lakers continue their successful run, Paul and Pat reckon with the tenuous nature of their positions; Earvin meets his childhood hero during a match and gets some good advice.
Down two men and with the 1980 NBA Championship on the line, the Lakers look to an unlikely source for inspiration.