The greatest Lakers of all time have shaped one of the most iconic franchises in basketball history. From Magic Johnson to Kobe Bryant, these legends delivered unforgettable moments, titles, and dominance. Each player on this list changed the game, influenced generations, and helped shape many fans’ NBA picks over the years.
The Lakers have won 17 NBA championships, tied for the most in league history. Their legacy includes eras of excellence, star power, and resilience. While many greats have worn the purple and gold, only a few stand out as truly elite. These ten players defined success, elevated teammates, and thrilled fans worldwide.
Some led dynasties, while others carried teams through tough seasons. All left an undeniable impact on the court. Their careers feature MVP awards, All-Star appearances, and countless playoff highlights. Moreover, their legacies extend beyond stats – they embody what it means to be a Laker.
As you review this list, remember the legends who shaped the team’s championship culture. Whether you’re a longtime fan or making smart NBA picks, these names deserve recognition. Let’s count down the ten greatest Lakers and celebrate the players who built the franchise’s rich and winning tradition.
Elgin Baylor: Big E is A Great Laker
Career Stats: 27.4 PPG, 13.5 RPG, 4.3 APG; 43.1 FG%, N/A 3FG%, 78.0 FT%
Notable Accomplishments: 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (1958-59), 11x NBA All-Star, 10x All-NBA selections
Elgin Baylor ranks 10th on the greatest Lakers of all time list due to his groundbreaking impact and elite scoring ability. He joined the Lakers in 1958 and immediately transformed the franchise into a contender. Baylor averaged 27.4 points and 13.5 rebounds per game over his career. His athleticism, hang time, and scoring creativity set a new standard for forwards.
Despite playing in a slower-paced era, Baylor consistently dominated defenders with speed, finesse, and strength. He made 11 All-Star appearances and 10 All-NBA First Teams. Though he never won a title, Baylor led the Lakers to eight NBA Finals. His playoff performances were legendary, including a 61-point game in the 1962 Finals.
Injuries eventually shortened his career, and he retired early in the 1971-72 season. Ironically, the Lakers won the championship that same year. Even without a ring, his legacy remains unmatched in Laker history.
Baylor laid the foundation for future stars like Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant. His contributions helped elevate the Lakers into a premier NBA franchise. While others surpassed him in rings or longevity, Baylor’s influence is undeniable.
LeBron James: The King Adds Prestige to the Lakers
Career Stats: 27.0 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 7.4 APG; 50.6 FG%, 34.9 3FG%, 73.7 FT%
Notable Accomplishments: 4x NBA Champion, 4x Finals MVP, 4x MVP, 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (2003-04), 21x All-Star, 28x All-NBA selections
LeBron James ranks 9th on the greatest Lakers of all time list due to his championship leadership and elite versatility. He joined the Lakers in 2018 and quickly turned the team into a contender. In 2020, LeBron led the Lakers to their 17th title, tying them with the Celtics for most in NBA history.
Even in his late 30s, LeBron continues to perform at an elite level. He averages over 25 points per game as a Laker. His court vision, strength, and leadership make him one of the best NBA small forwards ever. Though his prime came with Miami and Cleveland, his Lakers tenure still adds to his legendary status.
LeBron’s 2020 Finals MVP proved his ability to carry a team under pressure. He also became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer while wearing purple and gold. His presence has helped develop younger players and kept the Lakers relevant in a competitive Western Conference.
Some place him higher, but his shorter Laker tenure keeps him at 9th. Still, his championship, leadership, and records secure his spot. LeBron James remains one of the best NBA small forwards and a key figure in the Lakers’ storied legacy.
Pau Gasol: Excellence at Power Forward During the 2010s
Career Stats: 17.0 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 3.2 APG; 50.7 FG%, 36.8 3FG%, 75.3 FT%
Notable Accomplishments: 2x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (2001-02), 6x NBA All-Star, 5x All-NBA selections
Pau Gasol ranks 8th on the greatest Lakers of all time list for his skill, leadership, and championship contributions. He joined the Lakers in 2008 and immediately changed the team’s trajectory. Gasol’s arrival helped lead Los Angeles to three straight NBA Finals appearances.
He won two NBA championships alongside Kobe Bryant in 2009 and 2010. Gasol provided elite footwork, soft hands, and high basketball IQ in the post. His passing and unselfishness made the Lakers’ offense flow smoothly. He averaged 17.7 points and 9.9 rebounds per game as a Laker.
Gasol stood tall in critical playoff moments, especially during the 2010 NBA Finals against Boston. He embraced physical play and delivered when it mattered most. His calm demeanor balanced Kobe’s intensity, creating a perfect partnership.
Widely considered one of the best Hispanic NBA players ever, Gasol paved the way for future international stars. He also earned multiple All-Star nods and All-NBA honors during his Lakers tenure. His jersey retirement at Crypto.com Arena confirmed his legendary status.
Though not the flashiest, Gasol’s consistency and impact were vital to two championship runs.
James Worthy: “Big Game James” Thrives Under Pressure
Career Stats: 17.6 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 3.0 APG; 52.1 FG%, 24.1 3FG%, 76.9 FT%
Notable Accomplishments: 3x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals MVP (1988), 7x NBA All-Star, 3 All-NBA selections
James Worthy ranks 7th on the greatest Lakers of all time list for his clutch performances and championship pedigree. He joined the Lakers in 1982 as the first overall pick and quickly became a key piece of the Showtime era.
Worthy won three NBA championships with the Lakers in the 1980s. He earned the 1988 NBA Finals MVP after a legendary Game 7 performance with 36 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists. Known as “Big Game James,” he delivered under pressure when it mattered most.
His speed, athleticism, and finishing ability made him a nightmare in transition. Playing alongside Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Worthy thrived in fast-break situations. He averaged 17.6 points and shot over 52% from the field during his career.
Worthy made seven All-Star appearances and consistently elevated his play during the postseason. His playoff performances often overshadowed his regular season numbers. Few players matched his consistency and calm under pressure.
Though he played in the shadows of legends, Worthy carved out his own legacy. His ability to rise in big moments defined his career. For all these reasons, James Worthy earns the 7th spot on the list of the greatest Lakers of all time.
Jerry West: The Logo Defined the Lakers Legacy
Career Stats: 27.0 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 6.7 APG; 47.4 FG%, N/A FG3%, 84.1 FT%
Notable Accomplishments: 1x NBA Champion, 1x NBA Finals MVP, 14x All-Star, 17x All-NBA selections
Jerry West ranks 6th on the greatest Lakers of all time list due to his scoring, leadership, and relentless drive to win. He played for the Lakers from 1960 to 1974 and averaged 27 points per game for his career. West made 14 All-Star teams and 10 All-NBA First Teams.
Known for his clutch shooting and fierce competitiveness, West remains one of the best NBA shooting guards in history. He led the Lakers to nine NBA Finals appearances, finally winning a title in 1972. Despite multiple heartbreaking losses, he consistently delivered elite playoff performances.
In 1969, West became the only player to win Finals MVP on a losing team. That shows how impactful he was. His scoring, passing, and defense made him a complete guard during a physical era.
Nicknamed “Mr. Clutch,” West hit countless big shots under pressure. He also served as the inspiration for the NBA logo. Though others surpassed him in rings, few matched his overall excellence and intensity.
After retiring, West built championship teams as a Lakers executive. His influence extends beyond his playing days. For all these reasons, Jerry West ranks 6th and remains one of the best NBA shooting guards of all time.
Shaquille O’Neal: Diesel in Purple in Gold Was a Force of Nature
Career Stats: 23.7 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 2.5 APG; 58.2 FG%, 4.5 3FG%, 52.7 FT%
Notable Accomplishments: 4× NBA champion, 3× Finals MVP, 1× MVP, 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (1992–93), 15x NBA All-Star, 14x All-NBA selections
Shaquille O’Neal ranks 5th on the greatest Lakers of all time list for his dominant play and unmatched physical presence. He joined the Lakers in 1996 and instantly became the league’s most unstoppable force. Shaq averaged 27 points and 11 rebounds per game during his Lakers career.
He led the team to three straight championships from 2000 to 2002. O’Neal won three Finals MVPs during that run, showcasing his postseason dominance. His power, agility, and footwork made him nearly impossible to defend. Fans and bettors consistently targeted him in NBA player props due to his consistent double-doubles.
Shaq earned the 2000 NBA MVP, solidifying his place among the league’s best. His ability to take over games defined an era of Lakers basketball. He controlled the paint on both ends with unmatched strength and presence.
Though his partnership with Kobe Bryant eventually ended in tension, their success remains historic. Shaq’s ability to dominate the biggest stages makes him one of the most feared centers ever. His personality, charisma, and on-court success built his legendary status.
George Mikan: Mr. Basketball Held Up Shop Down Low
Career Stats: 23.1 PPG, 13.4 RPG, 2.8 APG; 40.4 FG%, N/A 3FG%, 78.2 FT%
Notable Accomplishments: 5× NBA champion, 6× All-NBA 1st Team selections, 4× All-Star, 6× All-NBA selections
George Mikan ranks 4th on the greatest Lakers of all time list because he built the franchise’s foundation of winning. He joined the Minneapolis Lakers in 1947 and immediately became the league’s first dominant big man. Mikan averaged 23.1 points and 13.4 rebounds per game in his career.
He led the Lakers to five championships in six years, making them the NBA’s first true dynasty. His hook shot and physicality overwhelmed defenders. The league changed rules – like goaltending and the shot clock – because of his impact.
Though he played before the modern era, Mikan’s legacy remains vital to Lakers history. He brought championships, fans, and credibility to professional basketball. His leadership and skill set the standard for future big men.
Mikan made multiple All-NBA teams and was named one of the NBA’s 50 and 75 greatest players. Without him, the Lakers might not have become the legendary franchise they are today.
His dominance shaped the early NBA and inspired generations of centers. While others had flashier careers, Mikan’s impact was foundational. For all these reasons, George Mikan ranks 4th on this list and remains a pioneer who helped define the Lakers’ championship culture.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: The Captain Oversaw the Lakers During the 80s
Career Stats: 24.6 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 3.6 APG; 55.9 FG%, 5.6 3FG%, 72.1 FT%
Notable Accomplishments: 6× NBA champion, 6× MVP, 2× Finals MVP, 19× All-Star, 27× All-NBA selections
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar ranks 3rd on the greatest Lakers of all time list because of his sustained excellence and unmatched scoring ability. He joined the Lakers in 1975 and played 14 seasons in Los Angeles. Kareem won five NBA championships with the team during the 1980s dynasty.
He dominated with his signature skyhook, an unblockable shot that helped him become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer for nearly 40 years. Kareem earned three MVPs as a Laker and six overall, the most in league history. His consistency and poise made him one of the best NBA centers ever.
Even in his late 30s, he remained a reliable offensive and defensive anchor. Kareem made 13 All-Star teams while in Los Angeles. His leadership helped guide younger stars like Magic Johnson and James Worthy.
He stepped up in big moments, including the 1985 NBA Finals, where he won Finals MVP at age 38. Kareem’s calm demeanor and unmatched fundamentals made him a pillar of Laker success.
While others had flashier styles, few matched his production and longevity. For these reasons, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar ranks 3rd and remains one of the best NBA centers to ever play the game.
Magic Johnson: Showtime Lakers’ Dynamo
Career Stats: 19.5 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 11.2 APG; 52.0 FG%, 30.3 3FG%, 84.8 FT%
Notable Accomplishments: 5× NBA Champion, 3× MVP, 3× Finals MVP, 9× All-NBA 1st Team selections, 12× All-Star
Magic Johnson ranks 2nd on the greatest Lakers of all time list because of his leadership, versatility, and championship success. He joined the Lakers in 1979 and won a title as a rookie, earning Finals MVP. Over his career, Magic captured five NBA championships and three league MVP awards.
Known for his dazzling passes and infectious energy, Magic redefined the point guard role. At 6-foot-9, he became one of the best NBA point guards ever. He averaged 19.5 points, 11.2 assists, and 7.2 rebounds per game.
His vision and creativity powered the Showtime Lakers, one of the most exciting teams in NBA history. Magic made 10 All-Star teams and led the league in assists four times. He delivered in clutch moments, including his legendary 1980 Finals performance as a rookie center.
Off the court, Magic brought charisma and star power that helped grow the NBA globally. He formed a dynamic duo with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and elevated teammates with unselfish play.
Though his career ended early due to health issues, his impact never faded. For all these reasons, Magic Johnson ranks 2nd and remains one of the best NBA point guards to ever grace the hardwood.
Kobe Bryant: The Black Mamba Sits Atop the Greatest Lakers of All Time List
Career Stats: 25.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.7 APG; 44.7 FG%, 32.9 FG3%, 83.7 FT%
Notable Accomplishments: 5x NBA Champion, 2x NBA Finals MVP, 1x MVP, 18x All-Star, 28x All-NBA selections, 2x NBA Scoring Champion (2006, 2007), 1x NBA Slam Dunk Contest Champion (1997)
Kobe Bryant ranks 1st on the greatest Lakers of all time list because of his loyalty, dominance, and unmatched competitive spirit. He spent his entire 20-year career with the Lakers, winning five NBA championships and two Finals MVPs. Kobe’s scoring, footwork, and work ethic made him a nightmare for defenders.
He ranks as one of the most clutch NBA players, delivering countless game-winners and unforgettable playoff performances. Bettors always factored him into NBA odds because he thrived under pressure. He scored 81 points in a single game, the second-highest in NBA history.
Kobe earned 18 All-Star selections, 15 All-NBA honors, and 12 All-Defensive nods. He ranks fourth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. His killer mentality and fearless mindset defined the post-Shaq Lakers era.
After winning three titles with Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe led the Lakers to back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010. His 2010 Finals win over Boston cemented his legacy. He inspired a generation with his “Mamba Mentality” and relentless pursuit of greatness.
No Laker matched his combination of longevity, production, and impact. For all these reasons, Kobe Bryant ranks 1st and remains one of the most clutch NBA players and legends who always shifted NBA odds.
Looking for more amazing NBA history? Check out the greatest Celtics players of all time, or the NBA teams with the best regular season records.