The Los Angeles Lakers are arguably the NBA’s most storied franchise by virtue of their 17 world championships. They’ve been so successful over the decades that even when they haven’t won it all, they have had some impressive squads that were memorable, not to mention talented, star-studded and very competitive.
Coming off a disappointing loss in the second round of the 2003 NBA playoffs that ended their run of three straight world titles, the Lakers reloaded by adding future Hall of Famers Gary Payton and Karl Malone. Fans thought another Larry O’Brien Trophy was on its way. Instead, a turbulent and unsatisfying season is what they got.