NBA

Lakers legend Michael Cooper names his top 5 players in NBA history: Jordan, LeBron snubbed

The debate over the greatest players in NBA history rages on, but Los Angeles Lakers legend Michael Cooper weighed in with his own top five list. Notably, his picks did not include LeBron James or Michael Jordan.

Michael Cooper #21 of the Los Angeles Lakers during an NBA game at the Great Western Forum in Los Angeles, California in 1988.
© Mike Powell/Getty ImagesMichael Cooper #21 of the Los Angeles Lakers during an NBA game at the Great Western Forum in Los Angeles, California in 1988.

One of the most iconic figures in Los Angeles Lakers history, Michael Cooper, left an indelible mark on the franchise. A five-time NBA champion, Cooper, who wore the number 21 jersey, solidified his status as one of the greatest players to ever don the purple and gold. Recently, the Lakers legend offered his perspective on the best players in NBA history, notably excluding Michael Jordan and LeBron James from his list.

When discussing the greatest NBA player of all time, the debate typically narrows to just two or three names. However, when the conversation expands to the best players in league history, the list becomes far more extensive. Sharing his unique insight, Cooper revealed his top five players, which included several unexpected selections.

Having debuted in the NBA during the late 1970s, Cooper’s choices reflect his era, emphasizing the dominance of players from that time. Excluding himself from consideration, among with Jordan and LeBron, the Lakers legend unveiled a list that sparked considerable discussion.

Advertisement

“My all-time favorite top five? Magic [Johnson], Kareem [Abdul-Jabbar], Larry Bird—you can’t include Magic without Larry. I’m going with Dr. J [Julius Erving]. I want to put Kobe [Bryant] on there, I want to include so many others, but it’s a tough call,” Cooper explained in an interview with YouTube channel Dreamers Pro.

Michael Cooper dunking

Michael Cooper #21 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots a layup during an NBA game against the New York Knicks at the Great Western Forum in Los Angeles, California in 1987.

Advertisement

Cooper’s reason for choosing these players

Amid a wealth of options, Cooper highlighted a few players who might not resonate with younger generations, as their prime years were in the 1960s and 1970s. His selections also reflected a deep personal connection to the Los Angeles Lakers, a team with which he shares a storied bond.

Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar names the greatest point guard in NBA history

see also

Every generation creates its own [legends]. I remember a lot of players from the ’60s and ’70s,” Cooper remarked. He explained that these players possess unique traits that set them apart as some of the best in NBA history. Among these qualities is their ability to excel even when facing double or triple-teams.

Advertisement

Additionally, Cooper praised their exceptional decision-making, including knowing when to pass the ball and their proficiency at free-throws. While many players may exhibit one or two of these attributes, he emphasized that few combine all these qualities in a single package.

Cooper’s picks for the greatest Lakers of all time

When asked about the greatest NBA players of all time, Cooper also shared his thoughts on the best players in Lakers history. Without hesitation, the former Lakers standout said: “In no particular order, I’m going with Jerry West, Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Elgin Baylor. People forget about him.”

Advertisement

ALSO READ

Teoscar Hernandez 'prays' for the Dodgers to make one last addition
MLB

Teoscar Hernandez 'prays' for the Dodgers to make one last addition

MLB News: Royals' star criticizes Mets for undervaluing Pete Alonso's contributions
MLB

MLB News: Royals' star criticizes Mets for undervaluing Pete Alonso's contributions

Former MLB star urges Yankees to trade top prospect for Guardians outfielder
MLB

Former MLB star urges Yankees to trade top prospect for Guardians outfielder

Where to watch Galatasaray vs Dynamo Kyiv live in the USA: 2024/2025 UEFA Europa League
Soccer

Where to watch Galatasaray vs Dynamo Kyiv live in the USA: 2024/2025 UEFA Europa League

Better Collective Logo