In Los Angeles Lakers history, few names resonate with the same reverence as Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson. But, when it comes to choosing the greatest Laker of all time, the answer isn’t as clear-cut as you might think. In a recent conversation, a particular ESPN analyst gave his verdict, “My favorite Laker of all time is Magic Johnson,” crowning Johnson. Yet, with Kobe’s five NBA rings, what could tip the scales in favor of Johnson?

Richard Jefferson made a strong case for Magic Johnson, a player who, despite abruptly retiring in 1991, is often credited with transforming the Lakers and the NBA. “Magic changed the game of basketball,” Jefferson stated, pointing out that Johnson wasn’t just a star player but was also the engine of the Lakers’ famous “Showtime” era. The 44-year-old further credited Johnson for popularising basketball as an American sport and bringing entertainment to the same. Something that has given space to what NBA entertainment is now.

While on the debate of the greatest Laker, it would be unfair to not discuss Bryant. Hence, expounding on his choice, Jefferson further stated, “Kobe only had 3 championships.” He noted The Black Mamba‘s five wins but added that only three of those were the clear winner. The other two? Those were as much Shaquille O’Neal’s as they were Bryant’s. Hence, The Big Diesel grabbed the Finals MVP during the Lakers’ early 2000s three-peat.

Further, Jefferson had nothing but praise for Johnson as he led the Lakers to glory, “They (Lakers) were doing so Magic coming out and doing 40 plus and winning, you know, game 6 in the NBA Finals as a rookie…The dude (Magic Johnson)…went to 8 NBA Finals in 11-12 seasons and won 5 of them,” Jefferson stated via Come And Talk 2 Me.

Out of the long list of achievements, one of the most standout achievements for Magic Johnson was winning the NBA championship in his rookie year. Drafted first overall in 1979 by the Los Angeles Lakers, he led his team to the NBA finals. In Game 6 against the Philadelphia 76ers, Johnson played all five positions including that of a center. As they emerged victorious, Johnson became the only rookie to win the NBA Finals MVP award.

Jefferson’s stance on Magic Johnson isn’t unique. His effect has been widely recognized by players, analysts, and fans alike. And while we are on the greatest Laker debate, let’s see what the former 7’1″ phenom of the Purple and Gold had to say.

Shaquille O’Neal weighed in on the “Greatest Laker Debate”

Back in February this year, Kobe Bryant was immortalized with a statue outside the Lakers’ venue, and the discussion over who’s the best Laker of all time reignited. Shaquille O’Neal, his former teammate and the last Laker to receive a statue, weighed in on the discussion. Shaq honored the award, saying, “[The statue] is well-deserved. Much debate whether it’s him or Magic who’s the greatest Lakers player.” However, The Big Diesel avoided picking a side.

O’Neal’s reluctance to crown either Bryant or Johnson as the ultimate best highlights his opinion that both players were important in the franchise’s success. He added, “I’m honored to have played with him. I’m glad to have helped him win and I’m glad he helped me win those championships.” For O’Neal, the argument itself can distract from enjoying the greatness of both legends as he believes that comparison is the thief of joy.

In the end, whether you side with Richard Jefferson in crowning Magic Johnson as the greatest Laker of all time, or you lean toward the unmatched legacy of Kobe Bryant, it’s clear that both players have left a lasting impression on the club. So, where do you stand? Is it Magic’s “Showtime” era or Bryant’s Mamba Mentality that marks the best Laker for you?

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.