Top 5 Greatest Players in Franchise History

The Lakers Legacy: Ranking the Top 5 Greatest Players in Franchise History

The Lakers’ Storied Legacy

The Los Angeles Lakers have a legacy that few teams can match. With 17 NBA championships, many Hall of Famers, and fans all over the world, they are one of the most famous teams in basketball. The franchise started in Minneapolis before moving to the bright lights of Los Angeles. Throughout their history, they have had some of the greatest players ever to step on the court. In this article, we’ll rank the Top 5 Greatest Lakers of All Time and celebrate what they brought to this amazing team.

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Lakers Franchise History: From Minneapolis to Los Angeles

The Minneapolis Era

1950 World Champion Minneapolis Lakers This image is available through Creative Commons and is not modified from the original.

The Lakers started in Minneapolis, where they were the best team in the early NBA days. Led by George Mikan, who many see as the first true superstar, the team won five championships from 1949 to 1954. This time set the stage for their future success.

Relocation to Los Angeles

In 1960, the Lakers moved to Los Angeles and brought professional basketball to Hollywood. This change opened a new chapter for the team. Soon, stars like Jerry West and Elgin Baylor began to shine.

Key Eras in Lakers History

Showtime Lakers: In the 1980s, Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar led a fast and exciting style of play. This era brought home five championships.

Kobe-Shaq Dynasty: In the early 2000s, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal teamed up to become one of the most powerful duos in NBA history, winning three titles in a row.

Recent LeBron James Era: In 2020, LeBron James helped the Lakers win another championship, keeping the tradition of excellence alive.

Methodology: Ranking the Greatest Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers Kobe Bryant Statue Crypto.com Arena
To rank the greatest Lakers, we looked at a few important factors:

Statistical Achievements

We considered players’ career stats with the Lakers. This includes points, rebounds, assists, and overall efficiency.

Championships and Team Success

We checked how many championships they won and how they helped the team succeed.

Individual Awards and Accolades

We looked at MVP awards, All-Star appearances, and other honors they received.

Impact on Team and League

We evaluated how these players influenced the Lakers and the game of basketball overall.

Longevity and Consistency

We considered how long they played for the team and their level of excellence throughout their careers.

The Top 5 Greatest Lakers of All Time

Player #5: Elgin Baylor

Career Highlights: Elgin Baylor averaged 27.4 points and 13.5 rebounds per game.

Statistical Analysis: He was one of the best scorers of his time.

Impact: Baylor changed the game with his above-the-rim play and brought a lot of excitement.

Memorable Moments: He scored 61 points in an NBA Finals game, a record that still stands.

Player #4: Shaquille O’Neal

Career Highlights: Shaq was a three-time Finals MVP with the Lakers.

Statistical Analysis: He dominated, averaging 27 points and 11 rebounds during his peak.

Impact: He redefined what it meant to be a dominant center.

Memorable Moments: His alley-oop dunk from Kobe in Game 7 against Portland is unforgettable.

Player #3: Magic Johnson

Career Highlights: Magic won five championships and was a three-time MVP.

Statistical Analysis: He averaged over **11 assists per game throughout his career.

Impact: Magic changed basketball with his passing and leadership as a point guard.

Memorable Moments: He played center as a rookie in Game 6 of the Finals to win a title.

Player #2: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Career Highlights: Kareem is a six-time MVP and won five championships with the Lakers.

Statistical Analysis: He was the NBA’s all-time leading scorer until recently passed by LeBron James.

Impact: He perfected the skyhook shot and was a model of consistency for **20 years**.

Memorable Moments: His skyhook won many important games for the Lakers.

Player #1: Kobe Bryant

Career Highlights: Kobe won five championships, was a two-time Finals MVP, and a league MVP.

Statistical Analysis: He ranks fourth all-time in scoring and was known for his hard work.

Impact: He inspired many with his “Mamba Mentality.”

Memorable Moments: Scoring 81 points in a single game against Toronto is legendary.

Comparative Analysis: What Sets These Lakers Apart

Playing Styles and Strengths

Each player had their own special skills. Magic was known for his amazing passing. Kobe was a master at scoring. Shaq dominated inside the paint.

Era-Specific Challenges

Looking at players from different eras shows how they adjusted to different styles of play.

Impact on Team Dynamics

These players made their teammates better. They led by example both on and off the court.

Expert Opinions and Quotes

Basketball greats like Phil Jackson have praised these players. Their leadership and skills put them among the best in NBA history.

Legacy and Influence: Shaping the Lakers and the NBA

Innovation in Playing Styles

Magic’s no-look passes and Kareem’s skyhook changed the way the game is played.

Global Impact on Basketball Popularity

Kobe Bryant became an international icon who inspired millions around the world.

Influence on Future Generations of Players

LeBron James has said that Magic Johnson inspired his playmaking style.

Learn more about Which categories does the great Kobe Bryant lead the Lakers

Fan Perspective: Debates and Honorable Mentions

Fan Favorites and Controversial Omissions

Some fans might think Jerry West or LeBron James should be on this list. These debates are what make sports exciting!

The Passionate Lakers Fanbase

Lakers fans are some of the most loyal and vocal. They love to defend their legends.

Discover 10 Most Memorable Moments in Los Angeles Lakers History.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Lakers Legacy

The Los Angeles Lakers are more than just a team. They symbolize excellence in basketball history. From Elgin Baylor to Kobe Bryant, these five players show decades of greatness that have shaped the team and the entire NBA.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who are considered the greatest Lakers of all time?

The greatest Lakers often include players like Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O’Neal, Elgin Baylor, Jerry West, and more.

Why is Kobe Bryant often ranked as the greatest Laker?

Kobe Bryant is celebrated for his scoring ability, work ethic, and leadership. He won five championships and inspired many with his “Mamba Mentality.”

What made Magic Johnson so special?

Magic Johnson is known for his incredible passing skills and versatility. He transformed the point guard position and led the Lakers to five championships.

How did Kareem Abdul-Jabbar impact the Lakers?

Kareem was the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and is famous for his skyhook shot. He won six MVP awards and five championships with the Lakers.

What contributions did Shaquille O’Neal make to the team?

Shaquille O’Neal helped the Lakers win three consecutive championships in the early 2000s. His size and strength changed how teams defended the paint.

How did Elgin Baylor influence the game?

Elgin Baylor was a pioneer of above-the-rim play. His scoring ability and athleticism made him one of the best players of his era.

What role did Jerry West play in the Lakers’ history?

Jerry West was a legendary player and later became a successful executive. He is known for his scoring, clutch performances, and for being the inspiration for the NBA logo.

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