Magic Johnson (1979-1991, 1996) – Number 32
One of the best players in history (many’s favorite even though he wasn’t strictly the best) but, almost without possible discussion, the most important in Lakers history. Or for the Lakers to be history. There were plenty of stars and plenty of glory before, but the Los Angeles franchise (and the NBA itself) wouldn’t have been the same without the smile, never-before-seen passes and charisma of Showtime’s one-man band Magic Johnson. Without Jerry Buss and Magic Johnson, the Lakers would not have become the epitome of LA and Hollywood that made them more than just a team. And, of course: 5 champion rings, three MVPs in the Finals and three in the Regular Season, 12 times all star, 9 in the Best Quintet and a very long etcetera. The date of the retirement of his shirt was February 16, 1992.