4. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Similar to what Tim Duncan represents to the modern NBA fan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was the vision of consistency for two entire decades for fans in the 1970’s and 80’s.
Even before moving to Los Angeles in 1975, Kareem showed his dominance on the Milwaukee Bucks posting unheard of seasons averaging 34.8 points and 16.6 rebounds a game, the year after averaging 31.7 and 16.0.
Though Kareem ranks third as all time greatest player in the NBA, the reason he falls to third greatest Lakers player in franchise history is because he did not spend his entire career in LA, meaning some of his accomplishments, including one championship, do not belong to the Lakers.
That said, his tenure alongside Magic Johnson, and later James Worthy, was truly one for the record books. During the 80’s the Lakers only missed two NBA Finals appearances, winning five of the eight they starred in.
On top of finishing his 20 year career with six NBA Championships, Kareem also has six MVP awards, two Finals MVP honors, Rookie of the Year honors and of course, is the all time leading scorer in the NBA, a record that is likely to stand for the foreseeable future.
Cap was truly amazing, and continues to aid the Lakers young players today.
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