Top 10 Lakers Draft Picks of All-Time
7. Michael Cooper
Magic, Kareem, Worthy. When people think of “Showtime” that is what comes to mind, but statically, its was Magic, Kareem, and Coop who were the more successful trio. Those three set the record for most playoff wins for a threesome of teammates that stood for quite some time. Last year in the Western Conference Finals, the Spurs big three of Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker surpassed them.
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In 1978, the Lakers selected Cooper with the 60th overall pick out of the University of New Mexico. Cooper was drafted in the same year as Larry Bird, and the two had some great battles over the years.
Cooper was a lock down defender for the Lakers throughout the 80’s, who’s versatility on defense was essential to the five championships won. Cooper was one of those guys who could play multiple positions, using his athleticism and aggressiveness to his advantage.
Cooper played all thirteen of his NBA seasons with the Lakers, and was selected to eight All-NBA defensive teams, and was the 1987 Defensive Player of the Year.