3 Lakers Greats Who Would Be Even Better if They Played Today

The Los Angeles Lakers have had some of the greatest players of all-time wear the purple and gold. Put it this way: six of the top eight all-time leading scorers in NBA history have donned the Laker uniform at some point in time. When you look at the list of greatest Lakers in the franchise’s history, there are more than a few who could have played today. Here they are.

3. Jerry West

Jerry West bringing the ball up the court / Focus On Sport/Getty Images

In The Logo’s prime, he was a combo guard that averaged anywhere between 25 and 30 points per game. Although he only stands at 6-2, he would fit well in today’s NBA where scoring at any position can get you on the floor. West also played great defense throughout his career that would translate well as he averaged more than 2.5 steals per game at the wily age of 35 when it became an official statistic.

2. Magic Johnson

Magic Johnson calling a play in the halfcourt / Getty Images/Getty Images

In his rookie year during the 1980 NBA Finals, Johnson played center for an injured Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. In today’s NBA, which caters towards size and being able to play multiple positions, Johnson would have no problem. He can work in the space and space of the 2020 NBA and can back down players that are smaller than him. Imagine 'Showtime' on the fast break with shooters in the corners and big men running the lane.

1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's sky hook / Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images

Cap played through two different eras with the dominant big men in the 70’s and the beginning of the fast break movement of the 80’s. Kareem can either back down a smaller center or hit the bigger ones with his signature sky hook. Abdul-Jabbar was also a great passer out of the post, which would help with finding shooters. An overlooked stat is Kareem averaged close to 1 steal and over 2.5 blocks per game.