Down two men and with the 1980 NBA Championship on the line, the outnumbered Lakers look to an unlikely source for inspiration. In Philly, Earvin faces off against his role-model-turned-rival Dr. J, while in LA, Haywood grapples with his own worst enemy: himself.

As the Lakers prepare to enter the play-offs, Buss struggles with the team's tenuous coaching situation and his mother's failing health. Later, Haywood receives an ultimatum from Kareem.

As the Lakers continue their successful run, Paul and Pat are forced to reckon with the tenuous nature of their positions. Then, Earvin meets his childhood hero at the NBA All-Star game, where he receives some sage advice. Jessie convinces Jeanie to help shield her father from a devastating truth.

While Buss clashes with West over the coaching staff, Paul calls in a favor from Pat Riley. On the road for the first time, Earvin attempts to reconnect with loved ones in Lansing, before heading to Boston to square off against longtime rival Larry Bird.

Tragedy strikes the Lakers coaching staff, adding to Buss' mounting list of professional, personal, and financial problems.

While the Lakers prepare for their season opener, Kareem experiences a crisis of faith, and Buss clashes with those closest to him.

While training in Palm Springs, the introduction of a new playing style threatens to further divide an already fractured Lakers franchise.

As Buss courts new talent, a former Laker ponders a future with the franchise, and Earvin's move to LA isn't quite as magical as he hoped.

As Buss attempts to connect with a fellow franchise owner, Coach West and Claire face near impossible mandates, and Earvin looks for love.

Businessman Jerry Buss bets it all on the lackluster Los Angeles Lakers – and rookie phenom Earvin "Magic" Johnson.