Top 3 Lakers Of All Time: A Definitive Ranking

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Top 3 Lakers of All Time: A Definitive Ranking

The Los Angeles Lakers, a franchise synonymous with basketball royalty, boast a history glittering with championships, iconic players, and unforgettable moments. Deciding on the top three Lakers of all time is a Herculean task, sparking endless debates among fans and analysts alike. This article dives deep into the legacies of some of the Lakers' greatest players, ultimately presenting a definitive ranking of the top three, judged on their impact, achievements, and overall contribution to the franchise's storied history. Get ready, guys, because we're about to wade into some serious hoops history and maybe ruffle a few feathers along the way!

Criteria for Selection

Before we unveil our top three, let's establish the criteria used for this ranking. It's not simply about raw talent or individual statistics, although those certainly play a role. We're looking at players who have:

  • Significantly Contributed to Lakers Championships: Rings matter, plain and simple. Players who led the Lakers to multiple championships receive a significant boost.
  • Demonstrated Long-Term Commitment to the Franchise: Longevity with the Lakers and dedication to the organization are crucial factors. Players who embraced the Laker culture and remained committed to the team throughout their prime are highly valued.
  • Achieved Individual Accolades and Recognition: MVP awards, All-Star selections, scoring titles, and other individual honors demonstrate a player's dominance and impact on the league.
  • Left a Lasting Legacy on the Game of Basketball: The impact extends beyond statistics and trophies. These players have inspired generations, revolutionized the game, and become cultural icons.
  • Displayed Leadership and Intangibles: Leadership, sportsmanship, and the ability to elevate teammates are essential qualities that separate good players from great ones.

With these factors in mind, let’s jump into the discussion and get ready to debate some legendary names!

The Contenders

The Lakers' history is overflowing with legendary names, each with a compelling case for inclusion in the top three. Narrowing it down to just three is an agonizing process, forcing us to leave out some truly exceptional players. Here are some of the contenders who deserve recognition, even if they don't quite make the final cut:

  • George Mikan: The original Lakers superstar, Mikan dominated the early days of the NBA, leading the Minneapolis Lakers to five championships. His impact on the game is undeniable, but his era is so distant that it's difficult to compare him directly to more modern players.
  • Jerry West: "Mr. Clutch" was a Lakers icon, known for his incredible scoring ability and unwavering competitiveness. He led the Lakers to the 1972 championship and his silhouette is the NBA logo. His impact is legendary, but falls just short of the top 3.
  • Elgin Baylor: An athletic marvel, Baylor was one of the most exciting players of his era. His scoring prowess and acrobatic moves thrilled fans, but he never won a championship with the Lakers.
  • James Worthy: "Big Game James" was a clutch performer who excelled in the playoffs. He was a key member of the Showtime Lakers, winning three championships and a Finals MVP award.
  • Pau Gasol: A skilled and versatile big man, Gasol was instrumental in the Lakers' back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010. His partnership with Kobe Bryant was one of the most formidable in the league.
  • Anthony Davis: A modern-day superstar, Davis brought his dominant two-way play to the Lakers, helping them secure the 2020 NBA Championship in the bubble. His time with the Lakers is still being written, but he's already made a significant impact.

All these players contributed significantly to the Lakers' success and hold a special place in the hearts of Lakers fans. However, only three can be crowned as the ultimate Lakers legends.

And Now, the Top 3 Lakers of All Time

After careful consideration and much debate, here's our definitive ranking of the top three Lakers of all time:

3. Magic Johnson

Earvin "Magic" Johnson isn't just a Laker legend; he's a basketball icon. Magic's infectious smile, dazzling passes, and larger-than-life personality captivated the world and helped usher in a new era of basketball. Drafted by the Lakers in 1979, he immediately made an impact, leading the team to a championship in his rookie season and winning the Finals MVP award. His battles with Larry Bird and the Boston Celtics defined the 1980s and helped propel the NBA to unprecedented heights. During his illustrious career with the Lakers, Magic won five NBA championships, three Finals MVP awards, and three regular-season MVP awards. His ability to play all five positions on the court made him a unique and unstoppable force. Beyond his on-court achievements, Magic's impact on the game extends to his advocacy for HIV/AIDS awareness. After announcing his diagnosis in 1991, he became a leading voice in the fight against the disease, breaking down stigmas and inspiring millions. Magic's legacy transcends basketball, making him one of the most influential figures of our time. His vision, passing ability, and leadership skills revolutionized the point guard position, and his impact on the Lakers franchise is immeasurable. He created Showtime. He made basketball fun to watch and brought new fans to the game. Even though his career was cut short, Magic is still considered one of the best players of all time. Ultimately, Magic's impact on the Lakers, the NBA, and society as a whole solidifies his place as one of the top three Lakers of all time. He isn't just a basketball player; he's an icon.

2. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the NBA's all-time leading scorer, is a towering figure in basketball history, both literally and figuratively. While he began his career with the Milwaukee Bucks, it was his time with the Lakers that solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players ever. Traded to the Lakers in 1975, Kareem brought his unparalleled scoring ability, defensive prowess, and signature skyhook to Los Angeles. He teamed up with Magic Johnson to form one of the most dominant duos in NBA history, leading the Lakers to five championships in the 1980s. His partnership with Magic ushered in the “Showtime” era, and cemented his place as not only a Laker great, but one of the NBA’s all-time greats. Before joining the Lakers, Kareem had already established himself as a superstar, winning an NBA championship and three MVP awards with the Bucks. However, it was his time in Los Angeles that cemented his legacy. He won three more MVP awards as a Laker, showcasing his sustained excellence and dominance over the league. His trademark skyhook was virtually unstoppable, and his defensive presence in the paint was intimidating. Beyond his individual accomplishments, Kareem was a respected leader and mentor to his teammates. He was known for his intellectual curiosity, his interest in social justice, and his calm demeanor on the court. He embraced the Laker culture and became a beloved figure in Los Angeles. Abdul-Jabbar's impact on the Lakers franchise is undeniable. He brought championships, individual accolades, and a sense of professionalism to the team. His skill set as a player, and leadership ability, allowed the Lakers to compete for championships every year he was on the team. Even after retiring, he remained a part of the Lakers family, serving as a mentor to young players and a goodwill ambassador for the organization. His contributions to the game extend beyond the court, as he has become a respected author, historian, and social commentator. While the top spot is often debated, there is no doubt that Abdul-Jabbar is one of the most accomplished and influential players in NBA history.

1. Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bean Bryant. The name itself evokes images of fierce competitiveness, unwavering determination, and unparalleled skill. Kobe spent his entire 20-year NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers, becoming synonymous with the franchise and the city itself. Drafted straight out of high school in 1996, Kobe quickly established himself as a rising star, showcasing his incredible athleticism, scoring ability, and work ethic. He was relentless in his pursuit of perfection, constantly honing his skills and pushing himself to be the best. Early in his career, Kobe teamed up with Shaquille O'Neal to form a dominant duo that led the Lakers to three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002. Even with Shaq, Kobe's star rose. Following Shaq's departure, Kobe took on the mantle of leadership, carrying the Lakers through both triumphs and tribulations. He won two more championships in 2009 and 2010, earning Finals MVP awards in both series. Kobe's dedication to the game was legendary. He was known for his intense training regimen, his meticulous preparation, and his unwavering focus on winning. The “Mamba Mentality” isn’t just something, it is a way of life that permeates all aspects of what you do. He inspired countless players and fans with his work ethic and his commitment to excellence. Beyond his on-court achievements, Kobe was a cultural icon. He transcended basketball, becoming a global superstar known for his charisma, his style, and his business acumen. He embraced the Laker culture and became a beloved figure in Los Angeles. His tragic death in 2020 sent shockwaves around the world, as fans mourned the loss of a true legend. His legacy, however, lives on, and his impact on the game of basketball will never be forgotten. For his commitment to the game, his ability to galvanize the Lakers teams around him, and his dedication to Los Angeles, he stands as the Lakers' greatest player of all time.

Honorable Mentions

There are so many other great players who deserve to be mentioned, but simply didn't crack the top 3. Elgin Baylor was a fantastic player that never won a championship. James Worthy was known as “Big Game James”, and was one of the most reliable players in Lakers history. While those two were fantastic, there is one player that deserves special recognition. That player is George Mikan. He won 5 championships in the early days of basketball, and was one of the first dominant big men in the game.

Conclusion

Choosing the top three Lakers of all time is a subjective exercise, and opinions will inevitably vary. However, based on our criteria of championships, longevity, individual accolades, legacy, and leadership, Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Kobe Bryant stand above the rest. These three players represent the pinnacle of Lakers greatness and have left an indelible mark on the game of basketball. They inspired millions, brought joy to countless fans, and helped cement the Lakers' place as one of the most iconic franchises in sports history. While players like LeBron James have contributed a lot to the Lakers, he simply hasn't done enough to be considered in the top 3. So, who do you think are the top three Lakers of all time? The debate continues!