The Los Angeles Lakers is a franchise that has had some of the greatest centers of all time, starting with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar before Shaquille O’Neal took over the throne. From 1980 to 2023, some big men held down the paint for the Purple and Gold while others simply passed by.
1980-1989: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Career Stats With The Lakers: 22.1 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 3.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 2.5 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: 5x NBA Champion, 1984-85 Finals MVP, 3x MVP, 13x All-Star, 10x All-NBA Team Selection, 7x All-Defensive Team Selection, 1975-76 Rebounds Leader, 3x Blocks Leader
From 1980 to 1989, the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar anchored the Los Angeles Lakers at the center position. Standing at 7’2″, Abdul-Jabbar was a dominant force on both ends of the court and remains one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history. The Lakers’ success during this period can largely be attributed to Abdul-Jabbar’s exceptional play and his ability to elevate the performance of his teammates.
His on-court chemistry with Magic Johnson, the team’s dynamic point guard, was a key factor in the Lakers’ Showtime era, characterized by fast-paced, high-scoring basketball and entertaining playmaking. Abdul-Jabbar won five NBA titles over his time with Magic as his point guard and also captured his second Finals MVP trophy with the Purple and Gold.
1990: Mychal Thompson
Career Stats With The Lakers: 8.9 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 0.6 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: 2x NBA Champion
In 1990, following the conclusion of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s illustrious career, the Los Angeles Lakers turned to Mychal Thompson to take over the starting center position. Although Thompson may have possessed a different level of dominance or scoring prowess than Abdul-Jabbar, he brought a solid skill set and valuable experience to the team. Standing at 6’10”, Thompson was a reliable presence in the paint, known for his rebounding, shot-blocking, and defensive intensity.
During his time with the Lakers, Thompson posted career averages of 8.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.5 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game. While these numbers may not jump off the stat sheet, Thompson’s contributions were instrumental in helping the Lakers maintain their competitive edge and championship aspirations during a transitional period for the franchise.
1991: Vlade Divac
Career Stats With The Lakers: 12.2 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.6 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: 1989-90 All-Rookie Team Selection
In 1991, the Los Angeles Lakers turned to Vlade Divac to take over the starting center position, ushering in a new era at the center spot following Mychal Thompson’s stint. Divac, a 7’1″ center from Yugoslavia, brought a unique blend of size, skill, and basketball IQ to the Lakers’ frontcourt as the former No. 26 overall pick in the 1989 NBA Draft.
Known for his deft passing, soft touch around the basket, and ability to run the floor, Divac quickly endeared himself to Lakers fans with his versatile style of play. During his time with the Lakers, Divac showcased his all-around abilities, posting solid averages of 11.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game during the 1991 season. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game made him a valuable asset and a focal point of the Lakers’ offense and defense.
1992: Sam Perkins
Career Stats With The Lakers: 14.6 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.0 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: N/A
In 1992, the Los Angeles Lakers brought in veteran forward-center Sam Perkins to bolster their frontcourt and serve as the team’s starting center. Perkins, known as “Big Smooth,” was a versatile and experienced player who provided the Lakers with a valuable combination of size, shooting, and basketball IQ. Standing at 6’9″, Perkins was adept at stretching the floor with his outside shooting, making him a unique and valuable asset at the center position.
During his season with the Lakers in 1992 as the center, Perkins posted solid averages of 16.5 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. The big man’s ability to space the floor, knock down perimeter shots, and create mismatches on offense added a new dimension to the Lakers’ offense alongside starting power forward A.C. Green.
1993-1996: Vlade Divac
Career Stats With The Lakers: 12.2 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.6 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: 1989-90 All-Rookie Team Selection
From 1993 to 1996, Vlade Divac resumed his role as the starting center for the Los Angeles Lakers, bringing with him his unique blend of skills and energy to the team’s frontcourt. Divac, known for his exceptional passing ability, fluid post moves, and tenacious rebounding, provided the Lakers with a versatile presence in the paint. Standing at 7’1″, Divac was a formidable force on both ends of the court, capable of scoring in the low post, facilitating ball movement, and protecting the rim.
Beyond his individual statistics, Divac’s leadership and camaraderie within the locker room were invaluable to the Lakers’ success. His unselfish play, high basketball IQ, and team-first mentality helped foster a positive team culture and contributed to the cohesion and chemistry of the roster. Despite facing challenges and transitions during this period, including changes in the coaching staff and roster turnover, Divac’s consistency and reliability remained constant for the Lakers.
1997-2004: Shaquille O’Neal
Career Stats With The Lakers: 27.0 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 3.1 APG, 0.6 SPG, 2.5 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: 3x NBA Champion, 3x Finals MVP, 199-00 MVP, 7x All-Star, 8x All-NBA Team Selection, 3x All-Defensive Team Selection, 199-00 Scoring Leader, 2x All-Star Game MVP
From 1997 to 2004, the Los Angeles Lakers were anchored at the center position by the dominant and charismatic Shaquille O’Neal, marking a transformative period for the franchise. O’Neal was a physical force unlike any other in the NBA, combining size, strength, and skill to dominate opponents on both ends of the court. Standing at 7’1″ and weighing over 300 pounds, Shaq was virtually unstoppable in the paint, possessing an array of post moves, powerful dunks, and a deft touch around the rim.
During his tenure with the Lakers, Shaquille O’Neal posted remarkable statistics, averaging 27.0 points, 11.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 0.6 steals, and 2.5 blocks per game. His scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and shot-blocking presence made him a perennial MVP candidate and one of the most dominant players in the league. Shaq’s on-court excellence translated to team success, as he led the Lakers to three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002.
2005-2006: Chris Mihm
Career Stats With The Lakers: 8.3 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 0.8 APG, 0.2 SPG, 1.1 BPG Career Achievements With The Lakers: N/A
From 2005 to 2006, the Los Angeles Lakers turned to Chris Mihm to man the starting center position following the departure of Shaquille O’Neal. While some might remember Kwame Brown during this period, Chris Mihm actually started more games than he did. A 7-foot center, brought a different skill set and playing style compared to his predecessor, focusing on solid interior defense, rebounding, and providing a reliable scoring presence in the paint.
During his time as the Lakers’ starting center, Chris Mihm posted decent averages of 8.3 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. While he may not have possessed the star power or dominant presence of Shaq, Mihm provided the Lakers with a steady and consistent presence in the frontcourt, contributing both offensively and defensively.
2007: Andrew Bynu
Career Stats With The Lakers: 11.7 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.3 SPG, 1.6 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: 2x NBA Champion, 2011-12 All-Star, 2011-12 All-NBA Team Selection
In 2007, the Los Angeles Lakers saw the emergence of Andrew Bynum as their starting center in the big man’s second season, marking the beginning of a promising era for the young big man and the franchise. Bynum, a highly-touted prospect drafted straight out of high school, showcased tremendous potential with his combination of size, athleticism, and skill set.
During his breakout season as the Lakers’ starting center in 2007, Andrew Bynum posted averages of 7.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game. His ability to score in the low post, protect the rim, and control the boards provided the Lakers with a dynamic inside presence that complemented the team’s perimeter-scoring threats.
However, Bynum’s promising season was cut short due to nagging injuries that limited his availability and impact during the latter part of the 2007 season and the playoffs. Despite the setback, Bynum’s performance and potential during his time as the Lakers’ starting center solidified his status as a key building block for the franchise moving forward.
2008: Pau Gasol
Career Stats With The Lakers: 17.7 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 3.5 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.4 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: 2x NBA Champion, 3x All-Star, 3x All-NBA Team Selection
In 2008, the Los Angeles Lakers made a transformative move by acquiring Pau Gasol to fill their starting center position, forming one of the most formidable duos in NBA history alongside Kobe Bryant. Gasol, a skilled 7-foot center from Spain, brought a unique blend of size, versatility, and basketball IQ to the Lakers’ lineup. His exceptional post moves, passing ability, and scoring touch made him a perfect fit for the Lakers’ up-tempo offense and triangle system.
Upon joining the Lakers in 2008, Pau Gasol made an immediate impact, averaging 18.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.6 blocks per game during the remainder of the regular season. His seamless integration into the team’s offense, high basketball IQ, and unselfish playmaking elevated the play of his teammates and contributed to the Lakers’ success. During his tenure as the Lakers’ starting center in 2008, Pau Gasol played a pivotal role in helping the team reach the NBA Finals, where they ultimately fell to the Boston Celtic
Career Stats With The Lakers: 11.7 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.3 SPG, 1.6 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: 2x NBA Champion, 2011-12 All-Star, 2011-12 All-NBA Team Selection
From 2009 to 2012, Andrew Bynum solidified his role as the Los Angeles Lakers starting center, forming a formidable frontcourt duo with Pau Gasol that posed significant challenges for opponents. While Bynum’s on-court contributions were significant, his tenure with the Lakers was not without its challenges and controversies. His maturity, work ethic, and commitment to the team were occasionally called into question due to various incidents, injuries, and inconsistencies that affected his availability and impact on the court.
Despite these challenges, Andrew Bynum’s talent, potential, and contributions during his time as the Lakers’ starting center from 2009 to 2012 were undeniable. His partnership with Pau Gasol in the frontcourt, individual growth as a player, and role in helping the Lakers reach the NBA Finals and win championships in 2009 and 2010 solidified his status as a key contributor and building block for the franchise during this era.
2013: Dwight Howard
Career Stats With The Lakers: 10.7 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 0.9 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.5 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: 2019-20 NBA Champion, 2012-13 All-Star, 2012-13 All-NBA Team Selection, 2012-13 Rebounds Leader
In 2013, the Los Angeles Lakers made a significant move by acquiring Dwight Howard to serve as their starting center, aiming to rejuvenate their frontcourt and bolster their championship aspirations. Howard, a dominant and athletic 6-foot-10 center, was widely regarded as one of the premier big men in the NBA at the time. During his lone season with the Lakers in 2013, Dwight Howard posted impressive averages of 17.1 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game.
While Howard’s individual statistics were commendable, his tenure with the Lakers was marred by various challenges and controversies both on and off the court. His fit within the Lakers’ system, chemistry with teammates, and ability to coexist with other star players, most notably Kobe Bryant, were often called into question due to reported conflicts, injuries, and inconsistencies that affected his performance and impact on the team.
2014: Pau Gasol
Career Stats With The Lakers: 17.7 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 3.5 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.4 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: 2x NBA Champion, 3x All-Star, 3x All-NBA Team Selection
In 2014, the Los Angeles Lakers turned once again to Pau Gasol to anchor their frontcourt as the team sought stability and veteran leadership following a tumultuous season with Dwight Howard. Gasol, who had previously enjoyed great success with the Lakers, returned to the starting center position with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to the franchise.
During his final season as the Lakers’ starting center in 2014, Pau Gasol continued to showcase his versatile skill set, basketball IQ, and unselfish play, posting solid averages of 17.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game. His ability to score from both inside and outside, facilitate ball movement, and provide leadership on and off the court made him a valuable asset for the Lakers during a challenging period of transition and rebuilding.
2015: Jordan Hill
Career Stats With The Lakers: 9.9 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: N/A
In 2015, the Los Angeles Lakers turned to Jordan Hill to fill the starting center position, as the team continued its rebuilding efforts and sought to develop younger talent. Hill, a 6-foot-10 forward-center known for his energy, rebounding, and hustle, was tasked with providing the Lakers with a physical presence in the paint and contributing on both ends of the court.
During his tenure as the Lakers’ starting center in 2015, Jordan Hill posted solid averages of 12.0 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. His ability to crash the boards, finish around the rim, and hustle on both ends of the court made him a reliable contributor in the Lakers’ frontcourt rotation but the team struggled with only 21 games won.
2016: Roy Hibbert
Career Stats With The Lakers: 5.9 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.4 SPG, 1.4 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: N/A
In 2016, the Los Angeles Lakers added veteran center Roy Hibbert to their roster in hopes of bolstering their frontcourt defense and providing leadership to a young and developing team. Hibbert, standing at 7 feet 2 inches tall, was known for his shot-blocking ability, rim protection, and defensive presence in the paint.
During his lone season as the Lakers’ starting center in 2016, Roy Hibbert posted modest averages of 5.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game. Despite his defensive contributions, Roy Hibbert’s time with the Lakers was marked by the team’s struggles and challenges on both ends of the court. The Lakers faced difficulties in finding cohesion, establishing consistency, and competing at a high level amidst a changing roster, coaching transitions, and a competitive Western Conference as they only won 17 games.
2017: Timofey Mozgov
Career Stats With The Lakers: 7.4 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 0.8 APG, 0.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: N/A
In 2017, the Los Angeles Lakers signed veteran center Timofey Mozgov to shore up their frontcourt and provide a veteran presence to their young roster. Mozgov, a 7-foot-1 center from Russia, brought a combination of size, strength, and experience to the Lakers’ lineup, aiming to provide stability and leadership in the paint.
Despite his contributions on the court, Mozgov’s time with the Lakers was marked by the team’s struggles and challenges, as they continued to rebuild and develop their young talent. The Lakers faced difficulties in finding consistency during a major rebuilding period that included only 26 games won during the season.
2018: Brook Lopez
Career Stats With The Lakers: 13.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.4 SPG, 1.3 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: N/A
In 2018, the Los Angeles Lakers acquired veteran center Brook Lopez to anchor their frontcourt and provide scoring, rebounding, and rim protection. Lopez, known for his scoring ability both inside and outside the paint, brought a versatile offensive skill set and veteran leadership to the Lakers’ lineup.
During his lone season as the Lakers’ starting center in 2018, Brook Lopez posted solid averages of 13.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. While his statistical production was commendable, Lopez’s impact on the court went beyond numbers, as he provided leadership, experience, and professionalism to a young Lakers roster but they still only won 35 games.
2019-2020: JaVale McGee
Career Stats With The Lakers: 9.4 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 0.6 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.7 BPG Career Achievements With The Lakers: 2019-20 NBA Champion
JaVale McGee’s tenure as the Lakers’ starting center from 2019 to 2020 was
characterized by his athleticism, and shot-blocking ability which included a championship-winning season. While his time with the Lakers may have been relatively brief, McGee’s impact, professionalism, and role in helping the team capture its 17th NBA championship should be celebrated and remembered as part of the team’s storied history and championship journey.
During his tenure as the Lakers’ starting center, JaVale McGee posted solid averages of 9.4 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. His ability to run the floor, catch lobs, protect the rim, and provide energy off the bench made him a valuable contributor to the Lakers’ rotation and helped complement the team’s star players.
2021: Marc Gasol
Career Stats With The Lakers: 5.0 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.1 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: N/A
In 2021, the Los Angeles Lakers added veteran center Marc Gasol to their roster, aiming to bolster their frontcourt depth, provide playmaking from the center position, and add championship experience to their lineup. Gasol, known for his high basketball IQ, passing ability, and defensive prowess, brought a unique skill set and veteran leadership to the Lakers’ rotation.
While the Lakers faced challenges and fell short of expectations during the 2021 season, Gasol’s professionalism, experience, and mentorship of younger players were valuable assets to the team’s development and growth. The 2020-21 season also marked Marc’s final season in the NBA, ending with averages of 5.0 points and 4.1 rebounds per game.
2022: Dwight Howard
Career Stats With The Lakers: 5.0 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.1 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: N/A
In 2021, the Los Angeles Lakers added veteran center Marc Gasol to their roster, aiming to bolster their frontcourt depth, provide playmaking from the center position, and add championship experience to their lineup. Gasol, known for his high basketball IQ, passing ability, and defensive prowess, brought a unique skill set and veteran leadership to the Lakers’ rotation.
While the Lakers faced challenges and fell short of expectations during the 2021 season, Gasol’s professionalism, experience, and mentorship of younger players were valuable assets to the team’s development and growth. The 2020-21 season also marked Marc’s final season in the NBA, ending with averages of 5.0 points and 4.1 rebounds per game.
2022: Dwight Howard
Career Stats With The Lakers: 5.0 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.1 BPG
Career Achievements With The Lakers: N/A
In 2021, the Los Angeles Lakers added veteran center Marc Gasol to their roster, aiming to bolster their frontcourt depth, provide playmaking from the center position, and add championship experience to their lineup. Gasol, known for his high basketball IQ, passing ability, and defensive prowess, brought a unique skill set and veteran leadership to the Lakers’ rotation.
While the Lakers faced challenges and fell short of expectations during the 2021 season, Gasol’s professionalism, experience, and mentorship of younger players were valuable assets to the team’s development and growth. The 2020-21 season also marked Marc’s final season in the NBA, ending with averages of 5.0 points and 4.1 rebounds per game
Leave a Reply