The 10 Greatest Los Angeles Lakers of All Time

September 2, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

Few teams in sports history have a legacy as rich as the Los Angeles Lakers. Spanning decades—from their origins in Minneapolis to their dynasty days in LA—the Lakers have been home to some of the greatest players the game has ever seen.

This ranking, built on fan votes from over 19,000 contributors on Ranker, combines impact, longevity, championship success, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a basketball history buff, this list captures the true essence of Laker greatness.

Let’s count down the Top 10 greatest Lakers of all time.

10. George Mikan

Before the Lakers were in Hollywood, George Mikan was dominating the paint in Minneapolis.
Widely considered the NBA's first superstar, Mikan led the Lakers to five championships in the early years of the league.
His size, footwork, and rebounding made him unstoppable—and set the foundation for the Lakers’ future greatness.

9. LeBron James

LeBron James joined the Lakers in 2018 and quickly made his mark, leading the team to the 2020 NBA championship.
With his unmatched versatility, leadership, and still-evolving legacy, LeBron continues to chase greatness in purple and gold.
Whether or not he finishes his career in LA, he's already secured his place among the Laker greats.

8. James Worthy

Nicknamed “Big Game James,” James Worthy earned his reputation with clutch playoff performances and smooth scoring.
A key piece in the Showtime Lakers, he won three championships and was named Finals MVP in 1988.
His ability to shine when it mattered most made him a Laker icon.

7. Elgin Baylor

Elgin Baylor was a revolutionary force in basketball—athletic, acrobatic, and ahead of his time.
Though he never won a championship, his incredible scoring ability and consistency made him a cornerstone of the Lakers' early LA years.
Baylor set the tone for the franchise’s future stars.

6. Wilt Chamberlain

A physical marvel with unmatched dominance, Wilt Chamberlain helped lead the Lakers to the 1972 NBA title.
Though many of his biggest feats came before joining LA, his contributions in purple and gold were still legendary.
His presence, even late in his career, altered the game every time he stepped on the court.

5. Jerry West

Known as “Mr. Clutch,” Jerry West was a scoring machine and playmaker for the Lakers across the 1960s and early ’70s.
He led the Lakers to a title in 1972 and later became one of the most successful executives in NBA history.
West's silhouette is literally the NBA logo—his impact is that deep.

4. Shaquille O'Neal

Shaquille O’Neal brought brute force and unstoppable dominance to the Lakers during the early 2000s.
Partnering with Kobe Bryant, Shaq led the team to a three-peat from 2000–2002 and earned three Finals MVPs.
His combination of size, skill, and personality made him one of the most beloved Lakers of all time.

3. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

With his trademark skyhook and unshakable presence, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar redefined longevity and excellence.
He won six championships, including five with the Lakers, and retired as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer (until LeBron passed him in 2023).
A quiet leader and transcendent talent, Kareem is Laker royalty.

2. Magic Johnson

The heart of the Showtime era, Magic Johnson changed how the point guard position was played.
With his dazzling passes, big-game flair, and infectious energy, Magic led the Lakers to five championships and won three MVPs.
He remains the soul of the Lakers franchise—and a lifelong ambassador for the team.

1. Kobe Bryant

Kobe_Bryant_2014 — Keith Allison, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

At the top of the list: Kobe Bryant, the Black Mamba.
Spending his entire 20-year career with the Lakers, Kobe won five championships, made 18 All-Star appearances, and delivered countless iconic moments.
His work ethic, killer instinct, and loyalty made him a legend—not just in LA, but around the world.