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Ranking the most influential Lakers players of all time

By Michael Reynoso

Magic Johnson rookie card (Photo by: Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
Magic Johnson rookie card (Photo by: Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) /
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Jerry West, Los Angeles Lakers (Photo by Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images)
Jerry West, Los Angeles Lakers (Photo by Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images) /

4. Jerry West

Basketball legend Jerry West, sometimes known as “Mr. Clutch,” had a path marked by tenacity, tenacity, and final success. In spite of a string of devastating defeats in his pursuit of championships, West’s unwavering determination propelled him to his most notable success in 1972. He had a great amount of tenacity and was recognized for showing up in stressful circumstances. He received an award as a consequence of being recognized as the “NBA Logo.”

It was not an easy journey for West to the top. He experienced a number of setbacks, including a run of (8) NBA Finals defeats, but they just strengthened his resolve. He eventually saw championship success with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1972. This success not only confirmed his extraordinary skill, but it also stood for the triumph of tenacity in the face of hardship.

Here are a few accolades of West as a Laker:

  • 9 NBA Championships (8 of them as NBA Executive)
  • 1969 NBA Finals MVP in a loss (became the first and only player to accomplish it)
  • 14-time All-Star (1960-1974)
  • He was the third player in NBA history to reach 25,000 points (behind Wilt Chamberlain and Oscar Robertson)
  • Became the first and only player to be chosen as the “NBA Logo”.
  • One of the top 50 & 75 greatest players ever.

Jerry West played a key role in the Lakers’ success, selecting future stars like Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kobe Bryant. His leadership and strategic ideas helped the team become basketball royalty, capturing 10 titles.

Jerry West’s journey serves as an example of the strength of tenacity and the long-lasting effects of hard effort. His capacity to bounce back and succeed is a testament to his unrelenting commitment to the game. In addition, his move into the front office and his astute choices showed that his basketball knowledge went beyond the floor. West’s reputation serves as a creator of future champions, not just for his prowess on the court but also for his significant contribution to the Lakers’ ongoing dominance.

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