Since joining the Lakers in 2018, LeBron James has racked up an NBA championship, a Finals MVP, seven All-Star appearances, and even led the league in assists. On paper, that’s a resume worthy of Lakers all-time great status. But NBA analyst Ric Bucher is not convinced.
Bucher has his own criteria for what makes someone an all-time Lakers great. According to him, a player needs at least 10 years with the franchise and three championships. By that standard, LeBron falls short, having played only seven seasons in Los Angeles with one title to his name so far.
“LeBron isn’t an all-time Lakers great.”
Ric Bucher says you need 10 years of service and 3 championships to be considered a Lakers great
“LeBron isn’t an all-time Lakers great.”
(🎥 @SpeakOnFS1 )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 7, 2025
Bucher’s rule would not only exclude LeBron but also popular Lakers greats like Jerry West, Wilt Chamberlain and Elgin Baylor. Even Shaquille O’Neal, who won three rings and has a statue outside of the arena, wouldn’t qualify because he played just eight seasons in L.A. If that sounds ridiculous, that’s because it is. Bucher might want to tweak the formula on this one.
