Last Updated on June 20, 2025 by Mat Diekhake
Here is a table of Magic Johnson’s NBA Finals opponents, with columns for year, opponent, result, and notes:
| Year | Opponent | Result | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1980 | Philadelphia 76ers | Lakers won 4–2 | Magic (rookie) played center in Game 6 for injured Kareem; Finals MVP |
| 1982 | Philadelphia 76ers | Lakers won 4–2 | Second title; strong all-around play from Magic |
| 1983 | Philadelphia 76ers | 76ers won 4–0 | Swept by dominant Moses Malone–led team |
| 1984 | Boston Celtics | Celtics won 4–3 | Intense rivalry; Magic criticized for late-game mistakes |
| 1985 | Boston Celtics | Lakers won 4–2 | First time Lakers beat Celtics in the Finals |
| 1987 | Boston Celtics | Lakers won 4–2 | Magic’s iconic “junior sky hook” in Game 4; Finals MVP |
| 1988 | Detroit Pistons | Lakers won 4–3 | Back-to-back titles; hard-fought 7-game series |
| 1989 | Detroit Pistons | Pistons won 4–0 | Magic injured in Game 2; Lakers swept |
| 1991 | Chicago Bulls | Bulls won 4–1 | Jordan’s first title; Magic’s last Finals appearance |
Summary:
- Finals appearances: 9
- Championships won: 5 (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988)
- Finals record: 5–4
- Finals MVP awards: 3 (1980, 1982, 1987)
- Teams faced most often: 76ers (3 times), Celtics (3 times)