10 Greatest Players in Los Angeles Lakers Franchise History

#6 Elgin Baylor

Elgin Baylor

The somewhat forgotten man in Lakers history, Elgin Baylor remains one of the most underrated players of all time. Perhaps the first above the rim player the NBA had seen, Baylor was also a terrific rebounder, adept passer and his hanging jump shots were a sight to behold.

In 1958, the slumping Lakers drafted Baylor 1st overall and he instantly turned them into contenders, leading them all the way to the Finals where they lost to the Boston Celtics, as a sign of things to come.

Baylor continued to dominate after the arrival of Jerry West and peaked in 1961-62 when he averaged over 38 points and 17 rebounds, but the Lakers lost to the Celtics in the Finals despite an NBA Finals record 61 points by Baylor in Game 5.

It was the theme of a somewhat cursed career, as Baylor lost 8 Finals in his career - 7 against the Celtics and one to the Knicks. He retired in 1971, 9 games into the season, citing knee problems and wouldn't you know it, the Lakers won the title that very season.

They did give him a ring, but that isn't recognized by the NBA. A little-known fact is that the Lakers were on the verge of folding back in 1958 and had Baylor not joined the team, they might as well have. He to this date is the franchise leader in points per game and total rebounds.