1. Magic Johnson
Magic Johnson, the leader of the “Showtime” Lakers. His passing abilities and team leadership made the Lakers title contenders throughout the 80’s, and arguably the best dynasty of all-time.
As the first overall pick in 1979, Magic led the Lakers to a championship in his first year. In Game six of the 1980 Finals, the rookie put up 42 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 assists, as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was out because of a sprained ankle.
Johnson’s best moment as a Laker came in the 1987 Finals against the Boston Celtics, where he hit his iconic across the lane sky-hook over two Celtics players in Game four (video above). Johnson averaged 26.2 points, 13 assists, and 8 rebounds in that series, earning Finals MVP.
Johnson’s career accomplishments are similar to that of Bryant, with five championships, but one more Finals MVP with three. Johnson led the league in assists four times, and steals twice. Johnson was also a twelve time All-Star, including two All-Star game MVP awards.