The Greatest Players in Los Angeles Lakers History: Ranked!

The Los Angeles Lakers have a storied history filled with some of the greatest players in NBA history. While legends like George Mikan, Elgin Baylor, Wilt Chamberlain, James Worthy and even the current dominance of LeBron James just missed the cut, this list narrows down the top five Lakers of all time. Factors such as icon status, longevity with the team and specific achievements in a Lakers uniform played crucial roles in determining these rankings.

#5. Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal, a dominant force in NBA history, brought an unstoppable presence to the Lakers during his eight seasons in Los Angeles. Partnered with Kobe Bryant, Shaq led the Lakers to three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002, solidifying their reign in the early 2000s. His physical dominance in the paint, coupled with MVP-caliber performances, earned him three NBA Finals MVP awards. O’Neal averaged 27 points, 11 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game during his time with the Lakers, marking his legacy as one of the most imposing big men in NBA history.

#4. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar spent 14 seasons with the Lakers, becoming the NBA’s all-time leading scorer during his tenure. His signature skyhook shot was nearly impossible to defend, and he played a crucial role in the Lakers’ five championships during the “Showtime” era of the 1980s. With the Lakers, Kareem won two NBA Finals MVP awards and one regular-season MVP in 1980. His longevity, leadership and unmatched scoring ability made him a Lakers icon, even as he played into his late 30s and early 40s.

#3. Jerry West

Known as “The Logo” for his silhouette becoming the NBA’s official logo, Jerry West remains one of the greatest players in Lakers history. Spending his entire 14-year career with the franchise, West was a 14-time All-Star and won an NBA championship in 1972. Despite falling short in multiple NBA Finals appearances, West earned the 1969 Finals MVP in a losing effort – the only player to do so. Known for his clutch shooting and relentless competitive spirit, West’s impact on the Lakers transcended his playing career, later shaping the team’s success as an executive.

#2. Magic Johnson

Magic Johnson revolutionized the point guard position with his size, vision and flair. His unique ability to play all five positions, orchestrate the Lakers’ fast-paced “Showtime” offense and consistently deliver in clutch moments made him a Lakers legend. Over his 13 seasons with the team, Magic won five championships, three NBA Finals MVP awards and three regular-season MVPs. His on-court rivalry with Larry Bird defined an era, and his leadership in critical moments cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players not only in Lakers history but also in NBA history.

#1. Kobe Bryant

No player embodies the Los Angeles Lakers more than Kobe Bryant. Spending his entire 20-year career in a Lakers uniform, Kobe’s unmatched work ethic, fierce competitiveness and “Mamba Mentality” defined the team for two decades. Bryant won five NBA championships, two Finals MVPs and earned the 2008 regular-season MVP. Known for his scoring ability, Kobe ranks fourth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, highlighted by his iconic 81-point game in 2006. With 18 All-Star selections, numerous All-NBA and All-Defensive team honors and a legendary commitment to the Lakers, Kobe is undoubtedly the greatest player in franchise history.