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Quick Bytes
- Byron Scott touts the 1987-88 Lakers as possibly the greatest NBA team ever.
- The Showtime Lakers won five championships and made eight Finals in the ’80s.
- Debate includes other great teams like the 2000s Lakers and 2010s Warriors.
The Showtime Lakers: An NBA Legacy
The legacy of the NBA’s greatest teams often sparks heated debates among fans and experts alike. Recently, Byron Scott reignited this discussion by claiming the 1987-88 Los Angeles Lakers, a team he was part of, stands as the best in history.
During an appearance on the “All Facts, No Brakes” podcast, Scott highlighted the team’s depth and talent, including stars like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy, as well as key role players. This Lakers squad not only showcased exceptional skill but also demonstrated resilience, becoming the first team in over two decades to win back-to-back championships in 1988.
While comparing teams across eras is challenging, especially with the evolution of the game and the rise of the three-pointer, the 1987-88 Lakers’ achievements are undeniable. They are often mentioned alongside other legendary Lakers teams, such as those from 2001 and 1972, underscoring the franchise’s enduring success.
The debate extends beyond the Lakers, with teams like the early 2000s Lakers, led by Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant, and the 2010s Golden State Warriors, featuring Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, also vying for the title of the greatest. A recent debate between Shaq and Draymond Green even explored a hypothetical matchup between their respective teams, showcasing the passion and pride that these discussions evoke among players and fans.
