You know a player has achieved so much for a team when they retire two jersey numbers in his name. That is what the Los Angeles Lakers [https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/los-angeles-lakers/] did with Kobe Bryant. The Mamba was a huge part of the Lakers’ success in the 2000s. His back-to-back titles in 2009 and 2010 nearly matched his early success in the decade. Kobe has garnered a lot of admirers for his game, and Bulls [https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/chicago-bulls/] legend Scottie Pippen is one of them. When the Mamba was in his prime, his performance never failed to please the crowd. And Pippen thinks Kobe’s curiosity led him to achieve greatness. Kobe Bryant [https://www.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Kobe-3.jpg] In a casual interview [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NfMCJIog1I&feature=youtu.be] with sports-media company Thuzio, the six-time champion explained his love for Kobe and mentioned how great of a person he was. “Kobe would call me and pick my brain. It was amazing to know that he did that to a lot of players. He did that to people in all parts of life, whether it was a movie producer or a best-selling author,” Pippen said. The seven-time All-Star further stated his regret for failing to praise Kobe [https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-news-los-angeles-lakers-flu-game-2-0-when-kobe-bryant-was-food-poisoned-by-a-new-jersey-mob-before-an-nba-game/] for what a great player he was. “Kobe was a very intelligent guy, and he believed in striving to be the best. I really hate that we didn’t tell him how great he really was.” SCOTTIE ANSWERED KOBE BRYANT AND MICHAEL JORDAN COMPARISONS Scottie Pippen even put forth the game comparison between Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan [https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/michael-jordan/]. The Hall of Famer subtly put it across that he thinks Kobe was better than MJ. Speaking about Kobe’s effort to reach the greatness of ‘His Airness’, Pippen thinks he really outclassed the Jumpman. “[Kobe] strived so hard to be Michael Jordan. When I go back and I look at his videos and I say to myself, ‘Damn he was better than Michael Jordan.’” Scottie Pippen briefly reflected on why Kobe did a better job in the NBA [https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/] when compared to his big brother in basketball. “He worked so hard. This kid came out of high-school. He didn’t go play for North Carolina under a Dean Smith,” Pippen reasoned as he prayed for God to bless Kobe’s soul. 

Bulls legend Scottie Pippen opened up on the greatness of Kobe Bryant and
reasoned as to why he thinks Kobe might be a better player than Michael Jordan

Arjun Athreya is a senior writer at Essentially Sports and has been contributing
since early 2020. Having developed an avid interest in sports at an early age,
he pursued a Journalism degree and graduated from Madras Christian College.
Arjun manages the Golf division and its content, and primarily covers news
pertaining to the NBA as well. In addition to it, he contributes to the NCAA
(College Basketball), and Tennis divisions too. Outside of writing, Arjun has
also conducted interviews with significant personalities in the sporting world.
He connected with notable NBA Insider Brandon ‘Scoop B’ Robinson, and Jerry
Castello, the CEO of USA Natural Patches, and the founder of a basketball
tournament called ‘The 5.’

https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Arjun_Athreya-1.png

Arjun Athreya

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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

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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<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Scottie Pippen 2022</strong><strong>: </strong><strong>Bio, </strong><strong>Net worth,</strong> <strong>and endorsements</strong></h2>
Scottie Pippen is a former professional basketball player who played 17 seasons in the <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/">NBA</a>. After playing four years of college basketball for Central Arkansas, Pippen came into the NBA through the 1987 <a href="https://www.basketball-reference.com/draft/NBA_1987.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">draft</a>. Seattle Supersonics drafted him with the fifth overall pick, but Chicago Bulls acquired him soon.

After playing 11 years for the Bulls, he played for Houston <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/houston-rockets/">Rockets</a> and <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/portland-trail-blazers/">Portland Trail Blazers</a>. However, he came back to the Bulls for a season before retiring.

[caption id="attachment_436200" align="aligncenter" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-436200" src="https://www.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-117946271.jpg" alt="Scottie Pippen with the 2006 NBA Finals trophy" width="1920" height="1439" /> Scottie Pippen with The 2006 NBA Finals Trophy during NBA Legends Scottie Pippen and Walt "Clyde" Frazier Announce 2006 Finals Trophy Tour at NBA Store in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Jemal Countess/WireImage)[/caption]

In addition to an illustrious 17-year career, Pippen was a six-time NBA Champion and a seven-time All-Star. He also has two Olympic gold medals to his name as part of the United States Team. (1992 and 1996 Olympics).
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Scottie Pippen and Chicago Bulls</strong></h2>
Pippen was an integral part of the Bulls dynasty during the 1990s. Along with <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/michael-jordan/">Michael Jordan</a>, he led the Bulls to an incredible run during that time. Most of his career achievements came while at the Bulls. The franchise later <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HN-SqMrt6t0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">retired</a> Pippen’s jersey no. 33 for his achievements.

In 2021, Pippen and several other ex-<a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nba/chicago-bulls/">Bulls</a> players were part of Michael Jordan's 'The Last Dance' docu-series. Having not been paid for the show, and not receiving much acclamation for it, Pippen went on to destroy MJ in a series of rants.

<img class="size-full wp-image-261191 aligncenter" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20200502231324/michael-jordan-scottie-pippen-040316-getty-ftr_1tiig56au6rvg1qb9mjrtqnibk.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1080" />
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Major Achievements</strong></h2>
6× NBA champion (1991–1993, 1996–1998)

7× NBA All-Star (1990, 1992–1997)

NBA All-Star Game MVP (1994)

3× All-NBA First Team (1994–1996)

8× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1992–1999)

NBA steals leader (1995)

No. 33 retired by Chicago Bulls
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Scottie Pippen Stats</strong></h2>
<table width="372">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Points</strong></td>
<td>18,940 (16.1 ppg)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Rebounds</strong></td>
<td>7,494 (6.4 rpg)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Assists</strong></td>
<td>6,135 (5.2 apg)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
(Stats via <a href="https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/p/pippesc01.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Basketball-Reference</a>)
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Scottie Pippen</strong><strong> Net Worth 2022</strong></h2>
Many claim Pippen as one of the most underpaid players in the NBA. It might have seemed true during his initial Bulls years. In 1991, he signed a 7-year, $18 million contract extension, which was significantly less as compared to other stars in the team, like Michael Jordan.

Nonetheless, Pippen made a fortune through endorsement deals besides earning money from the NBA. As for his latest net worth details, Pippen's worth is valued at $20 million (per <a href="https://www.celebritynetworth.com/richest-athletes/nba/scottie-pippen-net-worth/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Celebrity Net Worth</a>).
<h2 style="text-align: center">Scottie Pippen Foundation and Charity</h2>
Pippen once took part in a military charity <a href="https://chicago.cbslocal.com/2012/09/10/scottie-pippen-endorses-chicago-marathon-military-charity/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">event</a>. The 'Express Your Thanks' project in 2012 vowed to raise money for wounded soldiers. Besides endorsing the project, Pippen remembered his father who served in the military.

<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-275754" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20200524201923/Pippen-celebrating.jpg" alt="" width="512" height="288" />
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>How to contact Scottie Pippen? </strong></h2>
<strong>Scottie Pippen- <a href="https://www.facebook.com/scottiepippen/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Facebook</a></strong>

<strong>Scottie Pippen- </strong><a href="https://twitter.com/ScottiePippen" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Twitter</strong></a>

<strong>Scottie Pippen- <a href="https://www.instagram.com/scottiepippen/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a></strong>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Age</strong></td>
<td width="319">56</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Marital Status</strong></td>
<td width="319">Married</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Nationality</strong></td>
<td width="319">American</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Wife</strong></td>
<td width="319">Karen McCollum (1988-1990), Larsa Younan (1997-2021)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Kids</strong></td>
<td width="319">Antron, Scotty Jr, Preston, Justin, Sophia, Sierra, Yvette</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Height</strong></td>
<td width="319">6′ 8″ (2.03 m)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Weight</strong></td>
<td width="319">102 kg</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Wingspan</strong></td>
<td width="319">2.21 m</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Shoes</strong></td>
<td width="319">Nike</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Rings</strong></td>
<td width="319">6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="319"><strong>Endorsements</strong></td>
<td width="319">Nike, Ameritech Cellular TV, Frito-Lay, Visa, McDonald's, Right Guard, and Coca-Cola</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Scottie Pippen

Scottie Pippen 2022: Bio, Net worth, and endorsements Scottie Pippen is a former professional basketball player who played 17 seasons in the NBA. After playing four years of college basketball for Central Arkansas, Pippen came into the NBA through the 1987 draft. Seattle Supersonics drafted him with the fifth overall pick, but Chicago Bulls acquired him soon. After playing 11 years for the Bulls, he played for Houston Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers. However, he came back to the Bulls for a season before retiring. Scottie Pippen with The 2006 NBA Finals Trophy during NBA Legends Scottie Pippen and Walt &#8220;Clyde&#8221; Frazier Announce 2006 Finals Trophy Tour at NBA Store in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Jemal Countess/WireImage) In addition to an illustrious 17-year career, Pippen was a six-time NBA Champion and a seven-time All-Star. He also has two Olympic gold medals to his name as part of the United States Team. (1992 and 1996 Olympics). Scottie Pippen and Chicago Bulls Pippen was an integral part of the Bulls dynasty during the 1990s. Along with Michael Jordan, he led the Bulls to an incredible run during that time. Most of his career achievements came while at the Bulls. The franchise later retired Pippen’s jersey no. 33 for his achievements. In 2021, Pippen and several other ex-Bulls players were part of Michael Jordan&#8217;s &#8216;The Last Dance&#8217; docu-series. Having not been paid for the show, and not receiving much acclamation for it, Pippen went on to destroy MJ in a series of rants. Major Achievements 6× NBA champion (1991–1993, 1996–1998) 7× NBA All-Star (1990, 1992–1997) NBA All-Star Game MVP (1994) 3× All-NBA First Team (1994–1996) 8× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1992–1999) NBA steals leader (1995) No. 33 retired by Chicago Bulls Scottie Pippen Stats  Points 18,940 (16.1 ppg)  Rebounds 7,494 (6.4 rpg)  Assists 6,135 (5.2 apg)  (Stats via Basketball-Reference) Scottie Pippen Net Worth 2022 Many claim Pippen as one of the most underpaid players in the NBA. It might have seemed true during his initial Bulls years. In 1991, he signed a 7-year, $18 million contract extension, which was significantly less as compared to other stars in the team, like Michael Jordan. Nonetheless, Pippen made a fortune through endorsement deals besides earning money from the NBA. As for his latest net worth details, Pippen&#8217;s worth is valued at $20 million (per Celebrity Net Worth). Scottie Pippen Foundation and Charity Pippen once took part in a military charity event. The &#8216;Express Your Thanks&#8217; project in 2012 vowed to raise money for wounded soldiers. Besides endorsing the project, Pippen remembered his father who served in the military. How to contact Scottie Pippen? Scottie Pippen- Facebook Scottie Pippen- Twitter Scottie Pippen- Instagram  Age 56  Marital Status Married  Nationality American  Wife Karen McCollum (1988-1990), Larsa Younan (1997-2021)  Kids Antron, Scotty Jr, Preston, Justin, Sophia, Sierra, Yvette  Height 6′ 8″ (2.03 m)  Weight 102 kg  Wingspan 2.21 m  Shoes Nike  Rings 6  Endorsements Nike, Ameritech Cellular TV, Frito-Lay, Visa, McDonald&#8217;s, Right Guard, and Coca-Cola

“He Was Better Than Michael Jordan”: Scottie Pippen Lauds Jordan’s Protege Kobe Bryant

Scottie answered Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan comparisons