Story perspectives

Lakers' Legacy: A Look at Key Players Through the Years

9/16/2025

36 7

Summary

Story summary

The Los Angeles Lakers have had 506 players since their inception in 1946 as the Detroit Gems.
Bryon Russell played for the Lakers in the 2003-04 season, averaging four points and two rebounds over 72 games.
Russell's playoff contributions were limited as the Lakers lost to the Detroit Pistons in the NBA Finals.
Nick Van Exel, drafted in 1993, averaged 16.9 points and 8.3 assists in his second season, helping the Lakers reach the playoffs.
He made the All-Star team in 1998 but was traded to the Denver Nuggets due to coaching conflicts, retiring in 2006 with averages of 14.4 points and 6.6 assists.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Los Angeles Lakers have had 506 players since their inception in 1946 as the Detroit Gems.
Bryon Russell played for the Lakers in the 2003-04 season, averaging four points and two rebounds over 72 games.
Russell's playoff contributions were limited as the Lakers lost to the Detroit Pistons in the NBA Finals.
Nick Van Exel, drafted in 1993, averaged 16.9 points and 8.3 assists in his second season, helping the Lakers reach the playoffs.
He made the All-Star team in 1998 but was traded to the Denver Nuggets due to coaching conflicts, retiring in 2006 with averages of 14.4 points and 6.6 assists.