When discussing the top Los Angeles Lakers players of all-time, the two names Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant will always be in the discussion. Magic was the leader of the “Showtime” Lakers that won 5 rings and Bryant landed 5 championships of his own, where he left a huge stamp on the NBA. The argument of who is the best Laker is very substantial, but Magic Johnson himself believes that Kobe Bryant is the greatest Laker of all time.
“When you think about what Kobe has achieved, you know, we both have five championships…but at the end of the day, he has represented this city and the Lakers organization as well as anybody could”
This argument can go either way depending on when you grew up and who you prefer. Magic Johnson was something that was never witnessed before when he entered the league. His 6’9 frame with the ability to handle the rock and see the floor was like witnessing Sasquatch for the first time. He did everything on the floor; scored the ball, grabbed rebounds and got others involved. His no look passes and flashy style of play attracted eyes all over which is what donned the Showtime Lakers nickname.
Kobe Bryant on the other-hand, was a different type of beast. An animal that was willing to do anything to win. His basketball IQ was unparalleled and his fundamentals were a work of art. He simply could not be stopped. His greatness on the basketball court grasped a worldwide group of fans. He led a generation and was known to some as the best basketball player to live.
When comparing the two, who would you choose? Personally, I’m taking Kobe Bean Bryant. He’s a guy that I grew up on who made me a Los Angeles Lakers fan. Everything that he embodied as a player and the things I saw him do on the court, puts him as the greatest Laker of all-time in my eyes.
