Top 10 Greatest Los Angeles Lakers Players of All Time | Lakers Legends
- Mar 1, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 16
By Ryan Vickery — NBA analyst and writer covering the players, moments, and milestones that define the game.
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most iconic and successful franchises in NBA history. With a championship tradition, legendary rivalries, and a star-studded roster across decades, the Lakers have become synonymous with greatness. From pioneers of the game to modern superstars, the franchise has produced some of the greatest basketball players to ever step on the court.
This article highlights the top Los Angeles Lakers players of all time and the lasting impact they made on the game of basketball.
Greatest Lakers Guards
Magic Johnson (Earvin Johnson Jr.)
Often regarded as the greatest point guard in NBA history, Magic Johnson transformed the game with his unmatched passing vision and showtime style. A five-time NBA champion, three-time MVP, and 12-time All-Star, Johnson’s leadership defined the Lakers’ dominant era of the 1980s. His name remains inseparable from the Lakers brand.
Kobe Bryant
Known worldwide as the “Black Mamba,” Kobe Bryant dedicated his entire 20-year NBA career to the Lakers. With five NBA championships, two Finals MVPs, and two Olympic gold medals, Bryant embodied work ethic, competitiveness, and excellence. His scoring ability and relentless drive made him one of the most beloved Lakers legends.
Jerry West
Nicknamed “Mr. Clutch,” Jerry West was the heart and soul of the Lakers during the 1960s and early 1970s. Known for his consistency, scoring ability, and competitive spirit, West became the symbol of the NBA itself—the league logo silhouette is modeled after him.
Dominant Lakers Big Men
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (Lew Alcindor)As the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar brought consistency, dominance, and his unstoppable skyhook to Los Angeles. A six-time MVP and winner of five titles with the Lakers, Abdul-Jabbar’s influence was pivotal to the franchise’s dynasty years.
Shaquille O’Neal
A larger-than-life presence, Shaquille O’Neal dominated the paint like few in history. Teaming up with Kobe Bryant, Shaq led the Lakers to three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002. His rare mix of power, agility, and charisma helped define a new era of Lakers basketball.
Wilt Chamberlain
Wilt Chamberlain brought his legendary scoring and rebounding dominance to the Lakers late in his career. Though his time with the team was shorter, he was instrumental in helping Los Angeles capture the 1972 NBA Championship, cementing his role in Lakers history.
George Mikan
George Mikan is often called the NBA’s first true superstar. Leading the Minneapolis Lakers to multiple championships in the league’s early years, Mikan’s dominance laid the foundation for what would eventually become the Los Angeles Lakers dynasty.
Pau Gasol
Arriving in 2008, Pau Gasol quickly became the perfect partner for Kobe Bryant. His skillful post play, passing, and unselfishness helped the Lakers capture back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010. Gasol’s intelligence and versatility made him one of the most respected Lakers of his generation.
Versatile Lakers Forwards
Elgin Baylor
One of the NBA’s first true superstars, Elgin Baylor revolutionized forward play with his scoring, athleticism, and creativity. Though he never won a championship, Baylor was an 11-time All-Star and remains one of the greatest Lakers to ever wear the purple and gold.
James Worthy
Known as “Big Game James,” James Worthy thrived in the spotlight of the Showtime Lakers era. His clutch performances in the playoffs, including being named NBA Finals MVP in 1988, solidified his reputation as one of the franchise’s most reliable stars.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Lakers’ legacy is defined by the greatness of its players. From Magic Johnson’s Showtime brilliance to Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Mentality, from Kareem’s skyhook to Shaq’s dominance, each era of Lakers basketball has been marked by unforgettable legends. Together, these players shaped not only the identity of the franchise but also the history of the NBA itself.
As the Lakers continue to chase championships, the echoes of their storied past will always resonate through the purple and gold.
About the Author
Ryan Vickery is a staff writer for Massive Action Media with a degree in Sports Management. Based in Austin, Texas, he has been covering the NBA since 2022, delivering insights on players, rankings, and franchise history.
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