The Los Angeles Lakers boast a rich history filled with iconic players who have cemented their place in basketball lore. Legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Jerry West, Shaquille O’Neal, and the late Kobe Bryant have all received the ultimate honor – a statue immortalizing their legacy outside the famed Crypto.com Arena.
Kobe Bryant’s recent statue is just one of three that will be in front of the team’s home arena. More importantly, one question arises: who else deserves to have a statue?
LeBron James
The King’s case is a compelling one. While his time with the Lakers is shorter compared to other legends, his impact is undeniable. He delivered a championship in 2020 and surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Most recently, he became the first player to score over 40,000 points in a career. These milestones were all achieved while wearing the purple and gold. His contributions and achievements make him a strong contender for eventual statue recognition. James can make an even stronger case for a statue if he brings home another championship to Los Angeles.
Elgin Baylor
His legacy transcends his lack of a championship ring with the Lakers. Spending his first 13 seasons with the team, he was a perennial All-Star, averaging over 27 points per game during his career. While individual accolades don’t solely define statue worthiness, Baylor’s immense talent and influence on the franchise solidify his place in the conversation.
James Worthy
Another Laker legend, James Worthy was a vital piece of the Showtime era alongside Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. With three championships and Finals MVP honors to his name, Worthy’s impact is undeniable. While his statistics might not match others on this list, his role within the team’s success and iconic status make him a potential future candidate.
Ultimately, the decision of who receives a statue rests with the Lakers organization. These are just a few of those deserving who have left their mark on the franchise. As the Lakers continue to add chapters to their illustrious history, the question of who will be immortalized next remains an intriguing one.
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