Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty

1980. As the Lakers' post-victory season begins, Jerry Buss shores up his all-star roster and his relationship with his children. Later, a catastrophic injury threatens the team's chance at defending their title.

When Earvin's return threatens the Lakers' new "system," Pat Riley and Jerry West push for a risky trade. While Coach Westhead fights for his team, Jeanie clashes with her brothers, and a melancholy Buss attempts to court a figure from his past.

In the 1970s, college dropout Larry Bird fends off offers from Indiana State's Bill Hodges – and, later, Celtics' head coach Red Auerbach. As the '81-'82 season begins, Earvin pushes Buss for a long-term commitment, while Coach Westhead risks it all on a key move.

The press gets wind of Magic Johnson's record contract. This causes resentment in the dressing room - and on the court.

Superstar Earvin Magic Johnson and Coach Westhead clash. Team owner Jerry Buss orders Jerry West to pick up the pieces.

The Lakers win another championship. But after humiliating defeats, they have to regroup to take on the Celtics.

With the NBA Finals, the tensions between Lakers and Celtics reach a new peak in 1984, and between Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.