Three Lakers That Should Have Done the 3-Point Contest

Derek Fisher (2002)

Behind Gail Goodrich and Magic Johnson, Derek Fisher is arguably the third-best point guard in Lakers history. He is the original “ice in my veins.” The definition of clutch. A three-pointer with 0.4 seconds left on the clock? Are you kidding me?

Unlike Nick Van Exel, Fisher never made an NBA All-Star game. He didn’t even make an All-Rookie team, but I’m sure Fisher wouldn’t trade his five championship rings for any of those titles. I’m sure his draft classmate and good friend, Kobe Bryant, would agree.

During the 2001-02 season, the year Fisher, Bryant and Shaq won their third championship together, Fisher was one of the best three-point shooters in the NBA. Only Ray Allen and Pat Garrity shot a higher percentage from deep while attempting at least five 3-pointers per game. Was he invited to participate in the three-point contest at All-Star Weekend in Philadelphia? This list isn’t called “Five Players that Did Do the Three-Point Contest.”

Was he invited to participate in the three-point contest at All-Star Weekend in Philadelphia? This list isn’t called “Five Players that Did Do the Three-Point Contest.”

Fisher would have faced some stiff competition that year, including Steve Nash, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce and two-time 3-point contest champion Peja Stojakovic. But if there’s one thing fans know, you can never count out D-Fish. Unless you haven’t heard, he’s good under pressure. Just ask San Antonio.