Lakers: 50 Greatest Players in Franchise History
By Eric Yee
Dec 22, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant (24) waves to the crowd after the game against the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center. The Lakers won 111-107. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
The Lakers have been continually blessed to house some of the greatest players of all time
Last week we broke down the 30 greatest scorers in Lakers’ franchise history and this week it is time to discuss the greatest Lakers’ players ever in franchise history. This means that players who played for the Minneapolis Lakers and pre-merger are included.
This list differs from the best players of all time, in that, just because they rank high on that list does not guarantee them a top spot in the Lakers’ top players in franchise history.
For example, just because we think Wilt Chamberlain is a top player of all time, does not means he is a top Laker of all time.
Though championships and stats will play a big part in where players fall in this list, fandom and things they have done after their playing career for the Lakers will also factor into the rankings.
From fan favorites Derek Fisher and Robert Horry to ex-players turned rivals, a la Vlade Divac, no stone will go unturned as we dive into the Lakers’ rich history.
You don’t win 16 Championships with a bunch of scrubs, so without further adieu, here are the top 50 players in Lakers’ franchise history.
Next: No. 50 Luke Walton