The NBA wavier period comes to it close on 1st March. Los Angeles Lakers [https://www.nba.com/lakers/] waived Troy Daniels for his betterment at another potential NBA teams for his young and raw career. This roster opening has two contenders to look for in the upcoming days. J.R. Smith and Dion Waiters both scheduled to workout with Lakers in the coming week. A strong playoff contender wants to strengthen their team with a balanced perimeter offensive player to stabilize the crunch moments. J.R. SMITH, A LOOK AT HIS CAREER NBA champion didn’t have the best of his season, last season being released from Cleveland Cavaliers for whom he scored the only championship for them alongside LeBron James [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/lebron-james/]. But, the 2017-2018 NBA finals fiasco involving J.R. Smith and LeBron James which cost them another ring could create friction during their formal meeting. Only 11 games old last season with 6.7PPG, at 30.8% 3-PM didn’t make much of impact. He would like to team up with his former teammate before 2019-2020 playoffs begin. J.R. Smith was one of the lethal players when he was playing with New York Knicks averaging 14.5 PPG, with 40% 3-PM. FINAL SPOT CONTENDERS J.R. Smith would have to battle his position with LeBron’s former team-mate Dion Waiters [https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-los-angeles-lakers-news-lakers-to-add-veteran-depth-to-their-bench/] whom he played back in 2014 with him. Both had their equal ups and downs to LeBron. though, it would be interesting to see who would be able to move past their history of inconsistency and help Lakers to have a balanced side moving forward from now on. The contenders are competitive yet who stands strong against one another can only be decided by the Lakers. Dion Waiters is set to meet Laker’s front-desk on the 2nd of march and J.R. Smith is set to meet after that. Los Angeles Lakers will be vetting both players strongly to justify their presence in the roster. Who would be grabbing the final spot would be interesting to see? 

J.R. Smith set to workout with Los Angeles Lakers in coming week could he move
on from his past with LeBron James and join the Playoff Contenders

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<h2><b>Everything to Know About the Los Angeles Lakers</b></h2>
<h2><b>History</b></h2>
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most popular sports teams in the world. The Lakers are also a very successful team, and it started right from the beginning. The franchise began in 1947 as the Minneapolis Lakers in the National Basketball League and won the title in 1948. The team then joined the rival Basketball Association of America, which would later become the NBA in 1948. The Lakers continued their successful run in the BAA as well. But the team struggled financially in the mid-50s and relocated to Los Angeles in 1960 as the Los Angeles Lakers.

<img class="aligncenter wp-image-381910 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20200918202141/lal_primary-logo-scaled-1.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1189" />

<strong>Read More: <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-news-why-did-kobe-bryant-have-such-a-disturbing-relationship-with-his-parents/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Why did Kobe Bryant have such a disturbing relationship with his parents?</a></strong>
<h2><b>Who is the owner of the Los Angeles Lakers?</b></h2>
Dr. Jerry Buss purchased the Los Angeles Lakers along with the Forum and NHL's Los Angeles Kings for $67 million in 1979 from then-owner Jack Kent Cooke. The Lakers thrived under the leadership of Buss as he revolutionized virtually the entire league.

When Dr. Buss passed away in 2013, the ownership was transferred to his six children through a family trust. The Buss Family Trusts is the majority owner of the Lakers now with Jeanie Buss acting as the controlling owner. She became the first female controlling owner to win the title when the Lakers clinched the championship in 2020.

<strong style="font-size: 16px">Read More: </strong><strong style="font-size: 16px"><a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-throwback-relive-the-final-battle-between-kobe-bryant-and-lebron-james/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-wpel-link="internal">NBA Throwback: Relive the Final Battle Between Kobe Bryant and LeBron James</a></strong>
<div class="thb-post-title-bottom">
<h2><b>Who are the team sponsors?</b></h2>
The Los Angeles Lakers are sponsored by several major brands. Notably, the Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers signed a stadium-naming rights deal with the cryptocurrency platform Crypto.com. According to reports, it was a 20-year $700 million contract. So, the Staples Center was officially renamed Crypto.com Arena.

While the official kit sponsor of the Lakers is Nike, the team signed a deal with bibigo as the official jersey patch partner in 2021. Some of the other notable sponsors of the team are American Express, Beyond Meat, BioSteel, Budweiser, Comerica, Delta and Pepsi.
<p class="thb-post-title-inline-author"><strong style="font-size: 16px">Read More:</strong> <a style="font-size: 16px" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-la-lakers-where-does-lebron-james-live-all-that-we-know-about-his-massive-and-luxurious-villa/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Where Does LeBron James Live? All That We Know About His Luxurious Villa</a></p>

</div>

[caption id="attachment_1647883" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-1647883" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-04-03T021203Z_617747669_MT1USATODAY20381083_RTRMADP_3_NBA-LOS-ANGELES-LAKERS-AT-HOUSTON-ROCKETS.jpg" alt="LeBron James and Anthony Davis" width="1920" height="1280" /> Apr 2, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forwards Anthony Davis (3) and LeBron James (6) signal to teammates against the Houston Rockets during the third quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
<h2><b>Los Angeles Lakers roster</b></h2>
<table style="height: 742px" width="441">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">LeBron James</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Small Forward</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">38</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Anthony Davis</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Center</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">30</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Austin Reaves</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Shooting Guard</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">25</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">D’Angelo Russell</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Point Guard</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">27</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Dennis Schroder</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Point Guard</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">29</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Rui Hachimura</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Power Forward</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">25</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Lonnie Walker IV</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Guard</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">24</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Mo Bamba</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Center</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">25</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Jarred Vanderbilt</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Power Forward</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">24</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Malik Beasley</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Shooting Guard</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">26</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Tristan Thompson</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Center</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">32</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Troy Brown Jr.</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Small Forward</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">23</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<strong style="font-size: 16px">Read More:</strong> <a style="font-size: 16px" href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-news-hilarious-when-shaquille-oneal-challenged-michael-phelps-to-a-swimming-contest/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">When Shaquille O'Neal challenged Michael Phelps to a swimming contest</a>
<h2><b>Achievements and wins</b></h2>
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the two most successful teams in the league with 17 championships each. The Lakers' winning culture started right after the team was founded in 1947 as they won the NBL title in 1948. The Minneapolis Lakers continued winning titles after moving to the BAA as well. Then the BAA merged with NBL to form the NBA in 1949. So, the Lakers' 1948 title win is not considered by the NBA as an official championship. However, the 1949 championship is recognized since the team joined the BAA.

The dominance of the Lakers continued in the 50s as they won titles in 1950, 1952, 1953 and 1954, led by legendary center George Mikan. However, things went south after Mikan retired in 1954 as the team struggled on and off the court. Because of the financial troubles, the franchise was relocated to Los Angeles in 1960. However, the team still found it hard to get back to its winning ways. After a dry spell that lasted years, the team won the 1972 title with the help of NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain. It was followed by another eight years of disappointment.

In 1979, Dr. Jerry Buss became the majority owner of the Lakers with the intention to turn the team's luck around. 1979 also marked the entry of NBA legend Earvin 'Magic' Johnson when the team drafted him as the first pick. Thus began the era of Showtime Lakers. With the help of Magic, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and others, the Lakers lifted five championships in 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987 and 1988. The team then lost the 1989 and 1991 NBA Finals.

The Lakers struggled again until Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant started working their magic. The duo led the Lakers to three straight championships from 2000 to 2002, a feat even the Showtime Lakers could not achieve. O'Neal, Bryant and the team dismantled their opponents on their way to all three titles, displaying utter dominance. After Shaq left the team in 2004, Kobe became the main man. He then led the team to two straight rings in 2009 and 2010. Recently, superstar LeBron James helped the team win their record 17th championship in 2020.
<h2><b>The Lakers' rivalry with the Boston Celtics</b></h2>
The Boston Celtics and the Lakers are the two most successful teams in the league with 17 championships each. The Lakers and Celtics also have one of the biggest and longest rivalries in sports history. The rivalry between the two started in 1959 when they first faced each other in the Finals. The two have battled in the Finals a record 12 times in which the Celtics mostly came out on top.

In 1959, the Celtics swept the Lakers for the title. The Celtics continued their dominance over the Lakers by winning a mindboggling eight straight Finals, winning in 1959, 1962, 1963, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969 and 1984 over the Lakers. This was a massive blow to the franchise and its loyal fans who felt that their opponents were simply unbeatable. However, the Lakers finally overcame this streak and won the championship against the Celtics in 1985 and then again in 1987.

After the 1987 Finals, the Lakers and the Celtics once again locked horns in 2008 where Boston came out victorious. The teams again clashed in the 2010 Finals with the Lakers clinching the title this time. While the Celtics have won 9, the Lakers have won 3 in their 12 Finals showdowns so far.
<h2><b>How many numbers have the Lakers retired?</b></h2>
The Lakers have always been fortunate to have some of the most storied players on their roster for a long time. Therefore, so far, the team has 14 names on their rafters. The jerseys of legends George Mikan (99), Elgin Baylor (22), <span style="font-weight: 400">Jerry West (44), Wilt Chamberlain</span> (13), Gail Goodrich (25), Kareem <span style="font-weight: 400">Abdul-Jabbar (33), Magic Johnson (32), James Worthy (42), Jamaal Wilkes (52), Shaquille O’Neal (34), Kobe Bryant (8, 24) and Pau Gasol (16) have been retired. Legendary broadcaster Chick Hearn's name is also up on the rafters.</span>
<h2><b>Laker Girls: The owner's game-changing entertainment addition</b></h2>
Dr. Jerry Buss was a visionary who revolutionized the league with his entertainment and marketing ideas. The legendary team owner wanted the Lakers to be entertaining on and off the court to bring fans to the arena and to popularize the game in the country and around the world. One of Dr. Buss' important innovations was the Laker Girls.

The late owner ordered a formation of a dance squad with highly talented female dancers. While the idea received some backlash early on, it became widely accepted. While the Showtime Lakers entertained fans with their up-tempo style of play, the Laker Girls kept the crowd going with their dances during breaks.
<h2><b>Lakers on social media</b></h2>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Instagram</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lakers/"><span style="font-weight: 400">@lakers</span></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Twitter</span></td>
<td><a href="https://twitter.com/Lakers/"><span style="font-weight: 400">@Lakers</span></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Facebook</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/losangeleslakers"><span style="font-weight: 400">@losangeleslakers</span></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Website</span></td>
<td><a href="http://www.nba.com/lakers"><span style="font-weight: 400">https://www.nba.com/lakers?tmd=1</span></a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Founded </span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">1947</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Owner</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Buss Family Trusts</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">President</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Jeanie Buss</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Conference</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">West</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">General Manager</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Rob Pelinka</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Head Coach</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Darvin Ham</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Sponsors</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Crypto.com, bibigo, Nike, etc </span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Arena</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Crypto.com Arena</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Championships</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">17</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Conference Titles</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">19</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Division Titles</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">33</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">Team Value</span></td>
<td><span style="font-weight: 400">$5.9 Billion</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Los Angeles Lakers

Everything to Know About the Los Angeles Lakers History The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most popular sports teams in the world. The Lakers are also a very successful team, and it started right from the beginning. The franchise began in 1947 as the Minneapolis Lakers in the National Basketball League and won the title in 1948. The team then joined the rival Basketball Association of America, which would later become the NBA in 1948. The Lakers continued their successful run in the BAA as well. But the team struggled financially in the mid-50s and relocated to Los Angeles in 1960 as the Los Angeles Lakers. Read More: Why did Kobe Bryant have such a disturbing relationship with his parents? Who is the owner of the Los Angeles Lakers? Dr. Jerry Buss purchased the Los Angeles Lakers along with the Forum and NHL&#8217;s Los Angeles Kings for $67 million in 1979 from then-owner Jack Kent Cooke. The Lakers thrived under the leadership of Buss as he revolutionized virtually the entire league. When Dr. Buss passed away in 2013, the ownership was transferred to his six children through a family trust. The Buss Family Trusts is the majority owner of the Lakers now with Jeanie Buss acting as the controlling owner. She became the first female controlling owner to win the title when the Lakers clinched the championship in 2020. Read More: NBA Throwback: Relive the Final Battle Between Kobe Bryant and LeBron James Who are the team sponsors? The Los Angeles Lakers are sponsored by several major brands. Notably, the Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers signed a stadium-naming rights deal with the cryptocurrency platform Crypto.com. According to reports, it was a 20-year $700 million contract. So, the Staples Center was officially renamed Crypto.com Arena. While the official kit sponsor of the Lakers is Nike, the team signed a deal with bibigo as the official jersey patch partner in 2021. Some of the other notable sponsors of the team are American Express, Beyond Meat, BioSteel, Budweiser, Comerica, Delta and Pepsi. Read More: Where Does LeBron James Live? All That We Know About His Luxurious Villa Apr 2, 2023; Houston, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forwards Anthony Davis (3) and LeBron James (6) signal to teammates against the Houston Rockets during the third quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports Los Angeles Lakers roster  LeBron James Small Forward 38  Anthony Davis Center 30  Austin Reaves Shooting Guard 25  D’Angelo Russell Point Guard 27  Dennis Schroder Point Guard 29  Rui Hachimura Power Forward 25  Lonnie Walker IV Guard 24  Mo Bamba Center 25  Jarred Vanderbilt Power Forward 24  Malik Beasley Shooting Guard 26  Tristan Thompson Center 32  Troy Brown Jr. Small Forward 23  Read More: When Shaquille O&#8217;Neal challenged Michael Phelps to a swimming contest Achievements and wins The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the two most successful teams in the league with 17 championships each. The Lakers&#8217; winning culture started right after the team was founded in 1947 as they won the NBL title in 1948. The Minneapolis Lakers continued winning titles after moving to the BAA as well. Then the BAA merged with NBL to form the NBA in 1949. So, the Lakers&#8217; 1948 title win is not considered by the NBA as an official championship. However, the 1949 championship is recognized since the team joined the BAA. The dominance of the Lakers continued in the 50s as they won titles in 1950, 1952, 1953 and 1954, led by legendary center George Mikan. However, things went south after Mikan retired in 1954 as the team struggled on and off the court. Because of the financial troubles, the franchise was relocated to Los Angeles in 1960. However, the team still found it hard to get back to its winning ways. After a dry spell that lasted years, the team won the 1972 title with the help of NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain. It was followed by another eight years of disappointment. In 1979, Dr. Jerry Buss became the majority owner of the Lakers with the intention to turn the team&#8217;s luck around. 1979 also marked the entry of NBA legend Earvin &#8216;Magic&#8217; Johnson when the team drafted him as the first pick. Thus began the era of Showtime Lakers. With the help of Magic, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and others, the Lakers lifted five championships in 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987 and 1988. The team then lost the 1989 and 1991 NBA Finals. The Lakers struggled again until Shaquille O&#8217;Neal and Kobe Bryant started working their magic. The duo led the Lakers to three straight championships from 2000 to 2002, a feat even the Showtime Lakers could not achieve. O&#8217;Neal, Bryant and the team dismantled their opponents on their way to all three titles, displaying utter dominance. After Shaq left the team in 2004, Kobe became the main man. He then led the team to two straight rings in 2009 and 2010. Recently, superstar LeBron James helped the team win their record 17th championship in 2020. The Lakers&#8217; rivalry with the Boston Celtics The Boston Celtics and the Lakers are the two most successful teams in the league with 17 championships each. The Lakers and Celtics also have one of the biggest and longest rivalries in sports history. The rivalry between the two started in 1959 when they first faced each other in the Finals. The two have battled in the Finals a record 12 times in which the Celtics mostly came out on top. In 1959, the Celtics swept the Lakers for the title. The Celtics continued their dominance over the Lakers by winning a mindboggling eight straight Finals, winning in 1959, 1962, 1963, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969 and 1984 over the Lakers. This was a massive blow to the franchise and its loyal fans who felt that their opponents were simply unbeatable. However, the Lakers finally overcame this streak and won the championship against the Celtics in 1985 and then again in 1987. After the 1987 Finals, the Lakers and the Celtics once again locked horns in 2008 where Boston came out victorious. The teams again clashed in the 2010 Finals with the Lakers clinching the title this time. While the Celtics have won 9, the Lakers have won 3 in their 12 Finals showdowns so far. How many numbers have the Lakers retired? The Lakers have always been fortunate to have some of the most storied players on their roster for a long time. Therefore, so far, the team has 14 names on their rafters. The jerseys of legends George Mikan (99), Elgin Baylor (22), Jerry West (44), Wilt Chamberlain (13), Gail Goodrich (25), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (33), Magic Johnson (32), James Worthy (42), Jamaal Wilkes (52), Shaquille O’Neal (34), Kobe Bryant (8, 24) and Pau Gasol (16) have been retired. Legendary broadcaster Chick Hearn&#8217;s name is also up on the rafters. Laker Girls: The owner&#8217;s game-changing entertainment addition Dr. Jerry Buss was a visionary who revolutionized the league with his entertainment and marketing ideas. The legendary team owner wanted the Lakers to be entertaining on and off the court to bring fans to the arena and to popularize the game in the country and around the world. One of Dr. Buss&#8217; important innovations was the Laker Girls. The late owner ordered a formation of a dance squad with highly talented female dancers. While the idea received some backlash early on, it became widely accepted. While the Showtime Lakers entertained fans with their up-tempo style of play, the Laker Girls kept the crowd going with their dances during breaks. Lakers on social media  Instagram @lakers  Twitter @Lakers  Facebook @losangeleslakers  Website https://www.nba.com/lakers?tmd=1    Founded  1947  Owner Buss Family Trusts  President Jeanie Buss  Conference West  General Manager Rob Pelinka  Head Coach Darvin Ham  Sponsors Crypto.com, bibigo, Nike, etc   Arena Crypto.com Arena  Championships 17  Conference Titles 19  Division Titles 33  Team Value $5.9 Billion

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<h2><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Los Angeles Lakers Histroy</span></h2>
<span data-preserver-spaces="true">The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the biggest and most decorated franchises in NBA history. With few of the most iconic players by its name, it is NBA's one of the most prestigious chapters. The Lakers' franchise initially emerged in 1947. Drawing inspiration from Minnesota's "Land of 10,000 Lakes" nickname, it paved its name. At the time, the Lakers were part of the National Basketball League. Soon, the franchise made a significant leap to the Basketball Association of America (BAA), ultimately lifting titles in the format. </span>

<span data-preserver-spaces="true">However, its charm dwindled close to the beginning of the 60s, prompting the team to relocate to Los Angeles. Regardless, the franchise's struggle stayed. Even though the Lakers reached the NBA finals six times during the 1960s, they fell short of securing the title each time. However, the Lakers' fortunes changed dramatically soon. With few of the greatest players on its roster, the Lakers paved through 8 NBA finals in the 80s, ultimately securing 5 of those. Furthermore, their dominant era marked an evolutionary checkpoint for the game of basketball. </span>

[caption id="attachment_2103185" align="aligncenter" width="1437"]<img class="size-full wp-image-2103185" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago1030494274h.jpg" alt="" width="1437" height="1920" /> USA TODAY Sports-Historical Dec 1970 USA FILE PHOTO Milwaukee Bucks center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar 33 against Los Angeles Lakers center Wilt Chamberlain 13. Unknown Unknown USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xMalcolmxEmmonsx 11837264[/caption]

<span data-preserver-spaces="true">After their star players in the early 90s, the Lakers again faced a challenging period. This time, they endured their longest-ever NBA finals drought. However, change came in the 1999–2000 season with their new coach and set of young stars, who clinched a three-peat in the early 2000s. After being forced to rebuild, their next congratulations came in 2010, right before marking a grim tenure for the franchise. </span>

<span data-preserver-spaces="true">After failed all-star calibre collaborations, losing their franchise player to industries, and unfruitful rebuilding, the Lakers shook up their staff. Magic Johnson took over as the president of basketball operations, and soon, good times seemed on its way. Even though Johnson resigned early, his moves are still making noise in the Lakers' success. </span>
<h2><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Los Angeles Lakers Owners</span></h2>
<span data-preserver-spaces="true">As one of the oldest franchises in the league, the Lakers boast a rich and diverse history. Like any enduring empire, their story unfolds through different eras and different orchestrators.</span>

<span data-preserver-spaces="true">In 1947, Berger and Chalfen purchased the NBL's Detroit Gems. He transferred them to the Lakers and relocated to Minnesota. Over time, ownership changes ensued. Notable figures like Max Winter and George Mikan came into the picture. In 1957, the Lakers found themselves in the hands of Bob Short's investor group. They initially committed to keep the team in Minnesota. However, due to disappointing attendance and financial challenges, Short decided to move the team to Los Angeles in 1960.</span>

<span data-preserver-spaces="true">Eventually, Bob Short sold the team to Jack Kent Cooke in 1965. Cooke's ownership of the Lakers continued until 1979, when he orchestrated a substantial sale. It included the Lakers, NHL's Los Angeles Kings, the Forum, and real estate to Jerry Buss for $67 million. </span>

<span data-preserver-spaces="true">Under Buss's leadership, the Lakers set a precedent by introducing stadium sponsorships renaming the Forum to the Great Western Forum in 1988. In 2013, following Buss's passing, his children assumed ownership responsibilities, with Jeanie Buss taking on the role of the Lakers' governor.</span>
<table dir="ltr" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><colgroup> <col width="100" /> <col width="223" /> <col width="253" /></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">YEAR</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">OWNER</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">GENERAL MANAGER</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2017-present</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Buss Family Trust</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Rob Pelinka</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2016</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Buss Family Trust</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Mitch Kupchak/Rob Pelinka</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2014</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Buss Family Trust</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Mitch Kupchak</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1994</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Dr. Jerry Buss</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Mitch Kupchak</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1982</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Dr. Jerry Buss</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Jerry West</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1979</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Dr. Jerry Buss</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Bill Sharman</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1976</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Jack Kent Cooke</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Bill Sharman</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1972</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Jack Kent Cooke</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Pete Newell</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1967</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Jack Kent Cooke</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Fred Schaus</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1965</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Jack Kent Cooke</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Louis Mohs</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1960</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Robert Short</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Louis Mohs</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1958</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Robert Short</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">David Babcock, Odd Moe, John Scheefe</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1957</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Robert Short</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">John Kundla</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1954</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Ben Berger</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">George Mikan</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1948</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Ben Berger</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Max Winter</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Los Angeles Lakers retired jerseys and HOF players</span></h2>
<span data-preserver-spaces="true">With over seven decades in basketball, the Lakers have produced some of the most illustrious superstars in the sport's history. Even in 2023, several of these players are debated for their greatness. </span>

[caption id="attachment_2202967" align="aligncenter" width="1418"]<img class="size-full wp-image-2202967" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago0046312320h.jpg" alt="" width="1418" height="1920" /> January 26, 2020, Los Angeles, California, USA: Former Los Angeles Lakers player Kobe Bryant died in a Helicopter crash on Sunday, January 26, 2020 in Calabasas, California. He was 41. FILE PHOTO: Kobe Bryant 24 of the Los Angeles Lakers attends his last press conference, PK, Pressekonferenz after their game with the Utah Jazz at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California on Wednesday April 13, 2016. Lakers won 101-96, with Bryant scoring 60 points in his last game of his career. JAVIER ROJAS/PI Kobe Bryant dies. He was 41. - ZUMAp124 20200126_zaa_p124_015 Copyright: xJavierxRojasx[/caption]

<span data-preserver-spaces="true">Collectively, the Lakers proudly boast more than 35 Hall of Fame inductees among their ranks. Additionally, they've retired a total of 13 jersey numbers, forever linking these iconic digits to the legendary players who wore them.</span>
<table dir="ltr" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><colgroup> <col width="100" /> <col width="148" /> <col width="100" /> <col width="100" /> <col width="100" /> <col width="15" /> <col width="88" /> <col width="187" /> <col width="100" /> <col width="100" /> <col width="100" /></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">No.</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Name</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Position</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Tenure</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Inducted</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">No.</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Name</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Position</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Tenure</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Inducted</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">17</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Jim Pollard 2</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1948–1955</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1978</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">31</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Spencer Haywood</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1979–1980</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2015</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">22</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Slater Martin</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Guard</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1949–1956</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1982</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">31</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Zelmo Beaty</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Center</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1974–1975</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2016</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">34
89</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Clyde Lovellette</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward/Center</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1953–1957</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1988</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">11</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Charlie Scott</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Guard</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1977–1978</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2018</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">42</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Connie Hawkins</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward/Center</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1973–1975</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1992</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">12</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Vlade Divac</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Center</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1989–1996
2004–2005</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2019</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">19</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Vern Mikkelsen</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1949–1959</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1995</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">23</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Lou Hudson</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Guard/Forward</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1977–1979</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2022</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">11
25</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Gail Goodrich</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Guard</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1965–1968
1970–1976</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1996</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">16</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Pau Gasol</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward/Center</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2008–2014</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2023</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">11</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Bob McAdoo</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward/Center</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1981–1985</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2000</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">99</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">George Mikan 1</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Center</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1948–1954
1955–1956</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1959</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">00
42</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">James Worthy</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1982–1994</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2003</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">22</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Elgin Baylor</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1958–1971</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1977</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">4</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Adrian Dantley</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1977–1979</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2008</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">13</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Wilt Chamberlain</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Center</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1968–1973</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1979</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">11</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Karl Malone</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2003–2004</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2010</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">44</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Jerry West 3 5</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Guard</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1960–1974</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1980</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">73</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Dennis Rodman</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1999</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2011</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">33</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Center</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1975–1989</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1995</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">52</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Jamaal Wilkes</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Forward</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1977–1985</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2012</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">32</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Magic Johnson 4 6</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Guard</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1979–1991
1996</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2002</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">20</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Gary Payton</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Guard</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2003–2004</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2013</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">34</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Shaquille O'Neal</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Center</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1996–2004</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2016</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">23</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Mitch Richmond</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Guard</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2001–2002</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2014</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">10</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Steve Nash</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Guard</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2012–2015</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2018</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">8
24</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Kobe Bryant</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Guard</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">1996–2016</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">2020</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Los Angeles Lakers' active roster for 2023-24 season</span></h2>
<span data-preserver-spaces="true">Following a stretch of impressive teamwork and growing chemistry, the Lakers have retained significant players to solidify their roster for the 2023 season. Notably, they have also secured contract extensions for their superstar players. </span>

[caption id="attachment_1639746" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-1639746" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-03-30T032003Z_656778094_MT1USATODAY20345233_RTRMADP_3_NBA-LOS-ANGELES-LAKERS-AT-CHICAGO-BULLS.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1280" /> Mar 29, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) chats with Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3) during the second half of an NBA game against the Chicago Bulls at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]

<span data-preserver-spaces="true">What's more, they've bolstered their squad by adding fresh talent through free agency and draft picks.</span>
<table dir="ltr" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><colgroup> <col width="100" /> <col width="162" /> <col width="186" /> <col width="190" /></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">POS.</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">NAME</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">BASE
SALARY</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">CONTRACT TYPE</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">PF</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">LeBron James</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$47,607,350</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Vet Extension / Bird</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">C</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Anthony Davis</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$40,600,080</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Free Agent (Max) / Bird</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">PG</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">D'Angelo Russell</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$17,307,693</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Free Agent / Bird</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">PF</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Rui Hachimura</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$15,740,741</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Free Agent / Bird</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">SG</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Austin Reaves</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$12,015,150</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Free Agent / Early Bird</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">PG</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Gabe Vincent</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$10,500,000</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Free Agent / NT-MLE</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">PF</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Jarred Vanderbilt</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$4,640,000</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Acquired via Trade</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">PF</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Taurean Prince</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$4,516,000</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Free Agent / Bi-Annual</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">PG</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Jalen Hood-Schifino</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$3,695,040</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Drafted / Rookie</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">C</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Christian Wood</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$2,709,849</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Free Agent (Min)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">C</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Jaxson Hayes</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$2,165,000</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Free Agent (Min)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">SF</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Cam Reddish</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$2,165,000</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Free Agent (Min)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">SG</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Max Christie</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$1,719,864</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Drafted (Min)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value="{">SF</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Maxwell Lewis</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">$1,119,563</td>
<td data-sheets-value="{">Drafted</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Los Angeles Lakers Histroy The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the biggest and most decorated franchises in NBA history. With few of the most iconic players by its name, it is NBA&#8217;s one of the most prestigious chapters. The Lakers&#8217; franchise initially emerged in 1947. Drawing inspiration from Minnesota&#8217;s &#8220;Land of 10,000 Lakes&#8221; nickname, it paved its name. At the time, the Lakers were part of the National Basketball League. Soon, the franchise made a significant leap to the Basketball Association of America (BAA), ultimately lifting titles in the format.  However, its charm dwindled close to the beginning of the 60s, prompting the team to relocate to Los Angeles. Regardless, the franchise&#8217;s struggle stayed. Even though the Lakers reached the NBA finals six times during the 1960s, they fell short of securing the title each time. However, the Lakers&#8217; fortunes changed dramatically soon. With few of the greatest players on its roster, the Lakers paved through 8 NBA finals in the 80s, ultimately securing 5 of those. Furthermore, their dominant era marked an evolutionary checkpoint for the game of basketball.  USA TODAY Sports-Historical Dec 1970 USA FILE PHOTO Milwaukee Bucks center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar 33 against Los Angeles Lakers center Wilt Chamberlain 13. Unknown Unknown USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xMalcolmxEmmonsx 11837264 After their star players in the early 90s, the Lakers again faced a challenging period. This time, they endured their longest-ever NBA finals drought. However, change came in the 1999–2000 season with their new coach and set of young stars, who clinched a three-peat in the early 2000s. After being forced to rebuild, their next congratulations came in 2010, right before marking a grim tenure for the franchise.  After failed all-star calibre collaborations, losing their franchise player to industries, and unfruitful rebuilding, the Lakers shook up their staff. Magic Johnson took over as the president of basketball operations, and soon, good times seemed on its way. Even though Johnson resigned early, his moves are still making noise in the Lakers&#8217; success.  Los Angeles Lakers Owners As one of the oldest franchises in the league, the Lakers boast a rich and diverse history. Like any enduring empire, their story unfolds through different eras and different orchestrators. In 1947, Berger and Chalfen purchased the NBL&#8217;s Detroit Gems. He transferred them to the Lakers and relocated to Minnesota. Over time, ownership changes ensued. Notable figures like Max Winter and George Mikan came into the picture. In 1957, the Lakers found themselves in the hands of Bob Short&#8217;s investor group. They initially committed to keep the team in Minnesota. However, due to disappointing attendance and financial challenges, Short decided to move the team to Los Angeles in 1960. Eventually, Bob Short sold the team to Jack Kent Cooke in 1965. Cooke&#8217;s ownership of the Lakers continued until 1979, when he orchestrated a substantial sale. It included the Lakers, NHL&#8217;s Los Angeles Kings, the Forum, and real estate to Jerry Buss for $67 million.  Under Buss&#8217;s leadership, the Lakers set a precedent by introducing stadium sponsorships renaming the Forum to the Great Western Forum in 1988. In 2013, following Buss&#8217;s passing, his children assumed ownership responsibilities, with Jeanie Buss taking on the role of the Lakers&#8217; governor.    YEAR OWNER GENERAL MANAGER  2017-present Buss Family Trust Rob Pelinka  2016 Buss Family Trust Mitch Kupchak/Rob Pelinka  2014 Buss Family Trust Mitch Kupchak  1994 Dr. Jerry Buss Mitch Kupchak  1982 Dr. Jerry Buss Jerry West  1979 Dr. Jerry Buss Bill Sharman  1976 Jack Kent Cooke Bill Sharman  1972 Jack Kent Cooke Pete Newell  1967 Jack Kent Cooke Fred Schaus  1965 Jack Kent Cooke Louis Mohs  1960 Robert Short Louis Mohs  1958 Robert Short David Babcock, Odd Moe, John Scheefe  1957 Robert Short John Kundla  1954 Ben Berger George Mikan  1948 Ben Berger Max Winter  Los Angeles Lakers retired jerseys and HOF players With over seven decades in basketball, the Lakers have produced some of the most illustrious superstars in the sport&#8217;s history. Even in 2023, several of these players are debated for their greatness. January 26, 2020, Los Angeles, California, USA: Former Los Angeles Lakers player Kobe Bryant died in a Helicopter crash on Sunday, January 26, 2020 in Calabasas, California. He was 41. FILE PHOTO: Kobe Bryant 24 of the Los Angeles Lakers attends his last press conference, PK, Pressekonferenz after their game with the Utah Jazz at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California on Wednesday April 13, 2016. Lakers won 101-96, with Bryant scoring 60 points in his last game of his career. JAVIER ROJAS/PI Kobe Bryant dies. He was 41. &#8211; ZUMAp124 20200126_zaa_p124_015 Copyright: xJavierxRojasx Collectively, the Lakers proudly boast more than 35 Hall of Fame inductees among their ranks. Additionally, they&#8217;ve retired a total of 13 jersey numbers, forever linking these iconic digits to the legendary players who wore them.        No. Name Position Tenure Inducted No. Name Position Tenure Inducted  17 Jim Pollard 2 Forward 1948–1955 1978 31 Spencer Haywood Forward 1979–1980 2015  22 Slater Martin Guard 1949–1956 1982 31 Zelmo Beaty Center 1974–1975 2016  34 89 Clyde Lovellette Forward/Center 1953–1957 1988 11 Charlie Scott Guard 1977–1978 2018  42 Connie Hawkins Forward/Center 1973–1975 1992 12 Vlade Divac Center 1989–1996 2004–2005 2019  19 Vern Mikkelsen Forward 1949–1959 1995 23 Lou Hudson Guard/Forward 1977–1979 2022  11 25 Gail Goodrich Guard 1965–1968 1970–1976 1996 16 Pau Gasol Forward/Center 2008–2014 2023  11 Bob McAdoo Forward/Center 1981–1985 2000 99 George Mikan 1 Center 1948–1954 1955–1956 1959  00 42 James Worthy Forward 1982–1994 2003 22 Elgin Baylor Forward 1958–1971 1977  4 Adrian Dantley Forward 1977–1979 2008 13 Wilt Chamberlain Center 1968–1973 1979  11 Karl Malone Forward 2003–2004 2010 44 Jerry West 3 5 Guard 1960–1974 1980  73 Dennis Rodman Forward 1999 2011 33 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Center 1975–1989 1995  52 Jamaal Wilkes Forward 1977–1985 2012 32 Magic Johnson 4 6 Guard 1979–1991 1996 2002  20 Gary Payton Guard 2003–2004 2013 34 Shaquille O&#8217;Neal Center 1996–2004 2016  23 Mitch Richmond Guard 2001–2002 2014 10 Steve Nash Guard 2012–2015 2018  8 24 Kobe Bryant Guard 1996–2016 2020     Los Angeles Lakers&#8217; active roster for 2023-24 season Following a stretch of impressive teamwork and growing chemistry, the Lakers have retained significant players to solidify their roster for the 2023 season. Notably, they have also secured contract extensions for their superstar players. Mar 29, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) chats with Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3) during the second half of an NBA game against the Chicago Bulls at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports What&#8217;s more, they&#8217;ve bolstered their squad by adding fresh talent through free agency and draft picks.     POS. NAME BASE SALARY CONTRACT TYPE  PF LeBron James $47,607,350 Vet Extension / Bird  C Anthony Davis $40,600,080 Free Agent (Max) / Bird  PG D&#8217;Angelo Russell $17,307,693 Free Agent / Bird  PF Rui Hachimura $15,740,741 Free Agent / Bird  SG Austin Reaves $12,015,150 Free Agent / Early Bird  PG Gabe Vincent $10,500,000 Free Agent / NT-MLE  PF Jarred Vanderbilt $4,640,000 Acquired via Trade  PF Taurean Prince $4,516,000 Free Agent / Bi-Annual  PG Jalen Hood-Schifino $3,695,040 Drafted / Rookie  C Christian Wood $2,709,849 Free Agent (Min)  C Jaxson Hayes $2,165,000 Free Agent (Min)  SF Cam Reddish $2,165,000 Free Agent (Min)  SG Max Christie $1,719,864 Drafted (Min)  SF Maxwell Lewis $1,119,563 Drafted

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