1980 NBA Finals – Los Angeles Lakers vs. Philadelphia 76ers Rookie Magic Johnson stunned the world by starting at center in place of injured Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in Game 6 and delivering a 42-point, 15-rebound masterpiece to clinch the title. At just 20 years old, he became the youngest Finals MVP ever. The Lakers defeated Julius Erving’s Sixers 4–2 in a clash of styles: L.A.’s fast-breaking “Showtime” versus Philly’s disciplined half-court attack. Dr. J dazzled with acrobatic finishes, but Magic’s versatility proved decisive. The series announced a new era—charismatic, televised, and youth-driven. It also cemented the Lakers as Hollywood’s team and launched Magic’s legendary career. Decades later, Game 6 remains a benchmark for clutch rookie performance and adaptive brilliance under pressure.
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