From The Logo to Showtime, from Shaq and Kobe to King James, the Los Angeles Lakers are widely considered as the greatest NBA franchise of all-time. However, as a transition period from a dynasty to the other, the 1990s Lakers were often forgotten by people when they talk about the Lakers. In this post, we will travel back in time and remember the thrilling days for the Lakers in the 1990s.
Early-Mid 90s
When people think of the 90s finals, most people would think of Jordan’s Bulls and it’s finals rivalries, such as the Jazz, Blazers, Suns, or the Supersonic. Though, the first finals matchup the Bulls fought was against the Late-Showtime Lakers. This time, the Lakers didn’t have Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Without Kareem, the Lakers still managed to fight their way back to the finals, despite doubts of the showtime Lakers reviving. With the help of James ‘Big Game’ Worthy and Magic Johnson, the Lakers climbed their way back to glory, as they put up a great 5 game fight against the Jordan’s Bulls, whom they eventually lost to.
Unfortunately, entering the 1991-92 season, Magic Johnson retired for the first time due to HIV. For the next few years, despite not having Magic and Kareem, James Worthy, Vlade Divac and the Lakers crew still made the playoffs every year except for only the 1993-94 season.
Passing the Torch
In the Mid 90s, the Lakers drafted numerous young talents that would create history. At the same time, the Showtime Lakers roster was completely retired. The following are the major draft selections the Lakers made:
- 1993, Nick Van Exel
- 1994, Eddie Jones
- 1996, Derek Fisher
- 1999, Devean George
With the core of the beloved Nick Van Exel, Vlade Divac, Byron Scott, A.C. Green, and other players, the Lakers made multiple first rounds and a conference Semifinals.
One of the Lakers most remarkable stars in the 90s, Nick Van Exel was an one time all-star. He averaged around 15 points per game as a Lakers in the 90s. He was one of the most remembered player of the Lakers from the 90s.
The Next Dynasty
1996 is certainly one of the most important year in Lakers history. The Lakers traded their beloved Vlade Divac and multiple assets to the Hornets for the Draft Rights to Kobe Bryant, a move that would change the league for the following decades. Additionally, Magic Johnson recovered from HIV and came back from retirement, shocking the entire world.
On top of that, the Lakers pulled off one of the greatest signings in NBA history by bringing in Shaquille O’neal, a move that would create one of the greatest dynasties in the 21st Century.
With Kobe Bryant still developing into the youngest All-Star in NBA history, the Los Angeles Lakers made 2 conference semifinals and a 1 conference finals. However, due to the high expectations for the Lakers roster, the team was doubted due to not making the finals.
Despite the doubts, the Lakers went on to three-peat with one of the most dominant player in basketball history and one of the most impactful player in basketball history. Kobe Bryant went on to win another back to back Championships in the late 2000s with Pau Gasol, making the Lakers one of the biggest winners of the 2000s.
What the 90s meant for the Lakers and the Importance
Even though the Lakers didn’t win a championship in the 90s, the 90s was one of the most important decade for the Lakers. The Lakers successfully moved on from one dynasty to the other by making incredible smart moves thanks to Jerry West and the Front Office. The 90s Lakers made the playoffs nearly every year and made the 2nd round multiple time. This is extremely rare for any team going from a full transition, as most teams needs several decades. Furthermore, the 90s Lakers created numerous memorable moments and hopes for the Lakers franchise.
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