Magic Johnson was hurt when NBA legend publicly announced his objections to him playing in the league post-HIV diagnosis: "Wow, you could have just said that to me"

Magic Johnson had one of the most storied playing careers in the NBA. After being drafted No. 1 in the 1979 draft, Johnson joined Kareem Abdul-Jabbar on the LA Lakers. In his first season, Johnson cemented himself as one of the best point guards in the league. With his size and the handles of a guard, Johnson's skillset was one of the most unique.

During his time in the league, Johnson showed he was capable of playing more than just the point guard position. With five NBA championships under his belt, nobody could have predicted what the future would hold for Magic Johnson. After his 12th season in the league, it was discovered Johnson was HIV-positive.

The news came as a shock to the world. At the time, the diagnosis felt like somewhat of a death sentence given where medical technology was during that time. Despite retiring, Johnson took part in the 1992 NBA All-Star game, where several players voiced concerns over him playing after the HIV-positive diagnosis.

Specifically, his Dream Team teammate Karl Malone was adamant that Johnson playing put other players at risk.

"The same people that used to give you the dap and the love hug. ... Especially Karl Malone, he came out publicly with it, now I just played with you on the Dream Team and I practiced against you every single day. And now you don't want to play against me? Wow, you could have just said that to me."

Watch the clip from Magic Johnson's recent appearance on "Club Shay Shay" below.

Magic Johnson's return to the game and lasting legacy

Portland Trail Blazers vs. LA Lakers.

The diagnosis effectively ended the career of one of the greatest point guards of all time. With lingering knee injuries and his HIV diagnosis, Magic Johnson retired from the league. In his words, he did so for the sake of the league given the fact that players were so adamant about him not playing.

After taking off for several years, Johnson made a comeback in the 1995-96 season. Unfortunately, Johnson played in just 32 games before the team was swept in the first round of the playoffs.

The way he sees things, had he not received the diagnosis prior to the 1991-92 season, he would have without question continued to play and win more championships.

Since his retirement, Johnson has remained a staple of the NBA. Given his close relationship with Jerry Buss, it felt only fitting that Johnson took a front office role for the Lakers in 2017. Unfortunately, after just two seasons, he stepped away from his duties. Despite that, he has without question left an indelible mark on the NBA.

Check out some of his greatest highlights in the video below.

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