A detailed retrospective of the Los Angeles Lakers’ regular-season record and playoff success over the last 40 seasons.
The Los Angeles Lakers have been eliminated by the Denver Nuggets in the First Round, and with an early exit this year, we can call it another unsuccessful season.
Reflecting on the past 40 seasons, we take a closer look at the Lakers’ journey, from moments of triumph to challenges faced along the way. Join us as we explore the evolution of the Los Angeles Lakers, celebrating the highs and lows that have shaped one of the NBA’s most storied franchises.
1985-86 Season – 62-20 Record (1st in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the Western Conference Finals against the Houston Rockets (4-1)
Once again, the Los Angeles Lakers showcased their dominance during the regular season with an impressive 62-20 record, securing the first seed in the Western Conference. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar led the charge, maintaining strong performances with 23.4 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, alongside his selection to the All-Star team. Magic Johnson continued to excel as a playmaker, enhancing the team’s offensive flow with his exceptional passing and scoring.
In the playoffs, the Lakers’ aspirations for back-to-back championships were cut short in the Western Conference Finals, where they fell to the Houston Rockets in a surprising 4-1 series defeat. This outcome marked a rare stumble in an otherwise successful decade for the Lakers, as they struggled to contain Houston’s dynamic play.
1986-87 Season – 65-17 Record (1st in West)
NBA Playoffs: NBA Champions, defeated the Boston Celtics (4-2)
Surpassing previous successes, the Lakers set a franchise record with a remarkable 65-17 season, once again topping the Western Conference. Magic Johnson was in phenomenal form, averaging 23.9 points and 12.2 assists per game, which earned him the NBA MVP award. His performances, combined with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s consistent output of 17.5 points and 6.7 rebounds, formed a formidable duo that propelled the team throughout the season.
Their playoff run was highlighted by a victorious rematch in the NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. The Lakers secured the championship with a 4-2 series win, thanks to strategic adjustments and clutch performances, especially from Magic Johnson. This season not only fortified the Lakers’ 1980s dynasty but also avenged earlier playoff disappointments, cementing their legacy as a dominant force in basketball history.
1987-88 Season – 62-20 Record (1st in West)
NBA Playoffs: NBA Champions, defeated the Detroit Pistons (4-3)
Continuing their excellence, the Lakers once again led the Western Conference with a strong 62-20 record. This season featured outstanding contributions from Magic Johnson, who dazzled with 19.6 points and 11.9 assists per game, securing another MVP award. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar also played a crucial role, despite nearing the end of his illustrious career, by providing valuable leadership and steady on-court performance.
The playoffs were intensely competitive, culminating in a fiercely contested NBA Finals against the Detroit Pistons. The series went the distance, stretching to seven games. The Lakers prevailed in a tightly fought Game 7, clinching back-to-back NBA Championships. This victory not only highlighted their resilience and strategic prowess but also marked a significant moment as the last championship win for Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, adding a golden chapter to his legacy and that of the Lakers.
1988-89 Season – 57-25 Record (1st in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the NBA Finals against the Detroit Pistons (4-0)
With a strong showing in the 1988-89 regular season, the Lakers once again clinched the top spot in the Western Conference with a 57-25 record. Magic Johnson led the team with outstanding averages of 22.5 points and 12.8 assists per game, earning both MVP honors and a spot on the All-NBA First Team. The team’s depth and cohesion under Coach Pat Riley were critical to their success during the season.
Yet, the Lakers’ quest for a third consecutive NBA championship faced a daunting challenge in the Finals. They met a determined Detroit Pistons team, and without an injured Magic Johnson for much of the series, the Lakers were swept in four games. This series marked a rare Finals loss for the Lakers during an otherwise dominant decade and underscored the fierce competition of the era.
1989-90 Season – 63-19 Record (1st in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the Western Conference Semifinals against the Phoenix Suns (4-1)
Dominating the Western Conference yet again, the Lakers ended the regular season with an impressive 63-19 record. The team’s success was driven by Magic Johnson, who continued to showcase his elite playmaking and scoring abilities, averaging 22.3 points and 11.5 assists per game, earning another MVP nod. His leadership on and off the court was pivotal in maintaining the Lakers’ competitive edge.
Despite their strong regular season, the Lakers’ playoff journey was cut short unexpectedly in the Western Conference Semifinals. Facing the Phoenix Suns, the Lakers struggled to match the intensity and execution of their opponents, ultimately falling in a 4-1 series defeat. This loss marked the end of an era, as it was the last playoff run under Coach Pat Riley, signaling a transitional period for the franchise.
1990-91 Season – 58-24 Record (1st in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the NBA Finals against the Chicago Bulls (4-1)
The Lakers maintained their stronghold atop the Western Conference with a 58-24 record, driven by another stellar season from Magic Johnson. Magic dazzled the league with his versatility, averaging 19.4 points and 12.5 assists per game, which earned him All-NBA First Team honors. The team adapted well under new head coach Mike Dunleavy, embracing a slightly modified approach that focused on both veteran poise and integrating younger talent.
In the playoffs, the Lakers showcased their championship pedigree by reaching the NBA Finals once again. Regardless, they faced a formidable Chicago Bulls team led by Michael Jordan, who was determined to capture his first NBA title. The Lakers managed to secure one victory but ultimately could not contain Jordan and the Bulls, losing the series 4-1.
1991-92 Season – 43-39 Record (6th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the First Round against the Portland Trail Blazers (3-1)
Transition and challenge characterized the Lakers’ 1991-92 season as they navigated through a notable shift in team dynamics. Finishing with a 43-39 record, the Lakers slipped to the sixth seed in the Western Conference—a stark contrast to their dominant performances in previous years. Magic Johnson’s sudden retirement marked the season due to his HIV diagnosis, which significantly impacted the team both on and off the court.
Despite these setbacks, the Lakers managed to secure a playoff spot. In the postseason, they faced the top-seeded Portland Trail Blazers. Without Magic’s leadership, the Lakers struggled to match Portland’s intensity and depth, ultimately losing the series 3-1. This early exit from the playoffs signaled a period of rebuilding and adjustment for the franchise.
1992-93 Season – 39-43 Record (8th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the First Round against the Phoenix Suns (3-2)
The 1992-93 season marked a continued period of transition for the Lakers, who faced the challenge of redefining their team in the post-Magic Johnson era. With a record of 39-43, the Lakers barely clinched the eighth seed in the Western Conference, indicating struggles but also a tenacious fight to remain competitive. The team was led by James Worthy, who, despite battling injuries, managed to provide veteran leadership and a scoring presence, averaging 15.5 points per game.
In the playoffs, the Lakers faced a formidable opponent in the Phoenix Suns, led by the dynamic Charles Barkley. The series proved to be more competitive than expected, with the Lakers pushing the Suns to five games. Despite their efforts, the Lakers were ultimately unable to overcome the top-seeded Suns, exiting the playoffs in a closely contested first-round series.
1993-94 Season – 33-49 Record (9th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Did not qualify
The 1993-94 season highlighted the continued struggles for the Los Angeles Lakers as they grappled with their identity post-Magic Johnson. Finishing the season with a 33-49 record, the Lakers landed in 9th place in the Western Conference, failing to make the playoffs. This marked a significant downturn for a franchise accustomed to success and highlighted the need for substantial changes.
Vlade Divac stepped up as a key figure during this transitional period, averaging 14.2 points and 10.8 rebounds per game. Despite Divac’s strong performances, the team overall lacked the firepower and defensive prowess needed to compete effectively in a highly competitive conference.
1994-95 Season – 48-34 Record (5th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the Western Conference Semifinals against the San Antonio Spurs (4-2)
The 1994-95 season marked a significant improvement for the Los Angeles Lakers, who ended the regular campaign with a respectable 48-34 record, securing the fifth seed in the Western Conference. This resurgence was driven by the standout performance of Cedric Ceballos, who led the team with an average of 21.7 points per game. His offensive prowess provided a much-needed spark to the Lakers’ lineup.
Despite their regular season success, the Lakers’ playoff journey ended in the Western Conference Semifinals. They faced the San Antonio Spurs, led by David Robinson’s dominant presence. The Spurs proved too strong, and the Lakers were eliminated in a competitive six-game series.
1995-96 Season – 53-29 Record (4th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the Western Conference First Round against the Houston Rockets (3-1)
The 1995-96 season saw the Los Angeles Lakers post a strong 53-29 record, earning them the fourth seed in the Western Conference. Vlade Divac led the team from the front, contributing significantly with averages of 12.9 points and 8.6 rebounds per game. Cedric Ceballos continued to be a key offensive player, leading the team in scoring with 21.2 points per game while shooting an impressive 49.1% from the field.
After their solid regular-season performance, the Lakers faced a tough challenge in the playoffs against the experienced Houston Rockets, featuring Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. The Rockets’ seasoned play and strategic execution proved too much for the Lakers, who were eliminated in a 3-1 series defeat.
1996-97 Season – 56-26 Record (4th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the Western Conference Semifinals against the Utah Jazz (4-1)
The 1996-97 season was a transformative year for the Los Angeles Lakers, who finished with a strong 56-26 record and secured the fourth seed in the Western Conference. This season was highlighted by the arrival of Shaquille O’Neal, who dominated the paint with averages of 26.2 points and 12.5 rebounds per game. The Lakers also welcomed rookie Kobe Bryant, whose potential and athleticism were evident from the start.
Entering the playoffs with renewed vigor, the Lakers faced the Utah Jazz in the Western Conference Semifinals. Despite high hopes, they found themselves overmatched by the Jazz’s seasoned duo of Karl Malone and John Stockton. The Jazz’s superior experience and tactical play led to the Lakers’ exit in a 4-1 series defeat.
1997-98 Season – 61-21 Record (3rd in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the Western Conference Finals against the Utah Jazz (4-0)
The 1997-98 season marked another step forward for the Los Angeles Lakers, who concluded the regular season with an impressive 61-21 record, placing third in the Western Conference. Shaquille O’Neal dominated the center position, averaging 28.3 points and 11.4 rebounds per game, establishing himself as a leading force in the NBA. Kobe Bryant’s growth was evident as he increased his contribution to 15.4 points per game, showing signs of the superstar he was destined to become.
With high aspirations, the Lakers advanced to the Western Conference Finals, once again facing the Utah Jazz. Despite their regular season achievements and the depth of their roster, the Lakers were unable to overcome the Jazz, getting swept in four games.
1998-99 Season – 31-19 Record (4th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the Western Conference Semifinals against the San Antonio Spurs (4-0)
During the 1998-99 NBA season, which was shortened to 50 games due to a lockout, the Los Angeles Lakers managed to secure a 31-19 record, finishing fourth in the Western Conference. This season was notable for the arrival of coach Phil Jackson, who introduced the triangle offense to better utilize the talents of Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. Shaq was dominant, averaging 26.3 points and 10.7 rebounds per game, while Kobe contributed significantly with 19.9 points per game.
Expectations were high for the Lakers in the playoffs. They advanced to the Western Conference Semifinals to face the San Antonio Spurs, a formidable opponent. The Spurs, driven by the outstanding performances of Tim Duncan and David Robinson, demonstrated a higher level of team cohesion and defensive strength, sweeping the Lakers in four games.
1999-00 Season – 67-15 Record (1st in West)
NBA Playoffs: NBA Champions, defeated the Indiana Pacers (4-2)
The 1999-00 season marked a significant turning point for the Los Angeles Lakers, who finished with an impressive 67-15 record, securing the top seed in the Western Conference. Under the guidance of coach Phil Jackson in his second year, and employing the triangle offense, the Lakers found a winning formula. Shaquille O’Neal had a career year, leading the league with an average of 29.7 points and 13.6 rebounds per game, earning him the MVP award. Kobe Bryant also rose to new heights, averaging 22.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, firmly establishing himself as one of the premier players in the league.
The Lakers entered the playoffs with determination and advanced to the NBA Finals, facing the Indiana Pacers. The Finals series was a test of their resilience and strategic execution. Led by the dominant play of O’Neal and the clutch performance of Bryant, the Lakers overcame the Pacers in a challenging six-game series to win the NBA Championship. This victory not only ended the Lakers’ championship drought since 1988 but also marked the beginning of a new dynasty in the NBA.
2000-01 Season – 56-26 Record (2nd in West)
NBA Playoffs: NBA Champions, defeated the Philadelphia 76ers (4-1)
Building upon their previous season’s championship success, the Los Angeles Lakers finished the regular season with a robust 56-26 record, placing second in the Western Conference. The season was marked by some challenges that tested the team’s depth and resilience, yet they remained a formidable force. Shaquille O’Neal maintained his dominance in the league, averaging 28.7 points and 12.7 rebounds per game, while Kobe Bryant amplified his role as a co-star, contributing 28.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game.
With the playoffs in sight, the Lakers entered with a relentless determination to defend their title. They exhibited exceptional strength and focus, cruising through the postseason with only one loss. In the NBA Finals, they encountered the Philadelphia 76ers, led by the dynamic Allen Iverson. Despite a surprising loss in an intense overtime game to start the series, the Lakers quickly regrouped and won the next four games.
2001-02 Season – 58-24 Record (3rd in West)
NBA Playoffs: NBA Champions, defeated the New Jersey Nets (4-0)
In the 2001-02 season, the Los Angeles Lakers continued their dominant run, finishing with a 58-24 record and securing the third seed in the Western Conference. The team demonstrated a seamless blend of high-powered offense and defense. Shaquille O’Neal once again led the way with averages of 27.2 points and 10.7 rebounds per game, and Kobe Bryant excelled with 25.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, showcasing their status as one of the NBA’s most dynamic duos.
The Lakers’ postseason journey was marked by determination and a quest for a three-peat, a feat rarely accomplished in modern NBA history. They faced minimal resistance through the Western Conference playoffs, setting up a Finals matchup against the New Jersey Nets. Dominating the series, the Lakers swept the Nets in four games, displaying their championship pedigree.
2002-03 Season – 50-32 Record (5th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the Western Conference Semifinals against the San Antonio Spurs (4-2)
The 2002-03 season saw the Los Angeles Lakers finish with a 50-32 record, earning the fifth seed in the Western Conference. This season was tougher for the Lakers, as they dealt with injuries and team changes. Kobe Bryant stood out with impressive averages of 30.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, while Shaquille O’Neal also had a strong year, contributing 27.5 points and 11.1 rebounds per game.
The Lakers advanced past the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round but were challenged by the San Antonio Spurs in the semifinals. The Spurs, powered by Tim Duncan, outmatched the Lakers, ending their series in six games. This defeat marked the close of the Lakers’ championship streak and highlighted the need for strategic adjustments moving forward.
2003-04 Season – 56-26 Record (2nd in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the NBA Finals against the Detroit Pistons (4-1)
In the 2003-04 season, the Los Angeles Lakers assembled a star-studded roster, finishing with a 56-26 record and capturing the second seed in the Western Conference. The team added veteran stars Karl Malone and Gary Payton to a lineup already featuring Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal, boosting their championship prospects. Bryant led the scoring with 24.0 points per game, while O’Neal added 21.5 points and 11.5 rebounds per game.
Advancing to the NBA Finals with high hopes, the Lakers faced the Detroit Pistons. The Finals proved challenging as the Pistons’ cohesive play and stringent defense overwhelmed the Lakers’ individual talent. Detroit took the series 4-1, prompting significant changes for the Lakers in the offseason, including O’Neal’s trade and Phil Jackson’s departure.
2004-05 Season – 34-48 Record (11th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Did not qualify
Following a tumultuous offseason marked by significant changes, including the departure of Shaquille O’Neal and coach Phil Jackson, the Los Angeles Lakers faced a challenging 2004-05 season. They concluded with a 34-48 record, failing to make the playoffs and finishing 11th in the Western Conference. This season marked Kobe Bryant’s emergence as the sole leader of the team. Despite the team’s struggles, Kobe showcased his exceptional talent, averaging 27.6 points per game and earning selections to the All-Star team and the All-NBA Third Team.
2005-06 Season – 45-37 Record (7th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the First Round against the Phoenix Suns (4-3)
Building on the challenges of the previous season, the Los Angeles Lakers showed signs of improvement in the 2005-06 season, finishing with a 45-37 record and capturing the seventh seed in the Western Conference. This season was a standout year for Kobe Bryant, who delivered one of the most memorable performances in NBA history by scoring 81 points in a single game. Kobe’s phenomenal season averages of 35.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game not only earned him a spot on the All-NBA First Team but also solidified his reputation as one of the premier players in the league.
The Lakers entered the playoffs with renewed optimism but faced a tough Phoenix Suns team in the first round. The series extended to a dramatic seven games, showcasing intense competition and high stakes. Despite leading the series 3-1, the Lakers could not maintain their advantage and ultimately fell to the Suns.
2006-07 Season – 42-40 Record (7th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the First Round against the Phoenix Suns (4-1)
Continuing from their modest success in the previous season, the Los Angeles Lakers managed a 42-40 record in the 2006-07 season, securing the seventh seed in the Western Conference once again. Kobe Bryant was in excellent form, maintaining his high performance with averages of 31.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. His exceptional play earned him All-NBA First Team honors and a starting spot in the All-Star game.
The Lakers faced the Phoenix Suns in the first round for the second consecutive year. Despite high hopes and Kobe’s remarkable season, the Lakers were quickly dispatched in five games.
2007-08 Season – 57-25 Record (1st in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics (4-2)
After a couple of seasons marked by early playoff exits, the 2007-08 Los Angeles Lakers returned to form, finishing with an impressive 57-25 record and the top seed in the Western Conference. This resurgence was bolstered by the mid-season acquisition of Pau Gasol, who seamlessly integrated into the team and averaged 18.8 points and 7.8 rebounds per game after joining. Kobe Bryant continued his exceptional performance, leading the team with 28.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, which earned him his first NBA Most Valuable Player award.
The Lakers’ strengthened roster proved effective throughout the playoffs, propelling them to the NBA Finals, where they reignited their historic rivalry with the Boston Celtics. The Finals series was highly anticipated, but the Lakers found themselves outmatched by the Celtics’ defensive intensity and depth. Despite battling valiantly, the Lakers fell in six games.
2008-09 Season – 65-17 Record (1st in West)
NBA Playoffs: NBA Champions, defeated the Orlando Magic (4-1)
The 2008-09 season marked a triumphant return to championship glory for the Los Angeles Lakers, who dominated the regular season with a stellar 65-17 record, clinching the top seed in the Western Conference. Kobe Bryant was at the helm of this success, contributing an impressive 26.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, earning him All-NBA First Team and All-Star honors once again. Pau Gasol also played a pivotal role, providing strong support with 18.9 points and 9.6 rebounds per game, enhancing the team’s dynamic and efficiency.
The Lakers entered the playoffs with high expectations and a determination to erase the previous year’s Finals disappointment. They advanced through the Western Conference decisively and faced the Orlando Magic in the NBA Finals. The Lakers’ experience and cohesion were evident as they controlled the series from the start, defeating the Magic 4-1. Kobe Bryant’s outstanding performances throughout the series earned him NBA Finals MVP, solidifying his legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats.
2009-10 Season – 57-25 Record (1st in West)
NBA Playoffs: NBA Champions, defeated the Boston Celtics (4-3)
The 2009-10 Los Angeles Lakers repeated their success, securing the top seed in the Western Conference with a 57-25 record. Led by Kobe Bryant, who averaged 27.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.0 assists, the team was poised for a deep playoff run. Pau Gasol also made significant contributions, averaging 18.3 points and 11.3 rebounds.
The Lakers faced a rigorous path through the playoffs, culminating in a Finals rematch against the Boston Celtics. This series was a hard-fought battle, stretching to seven games. The Lakers’ resilience shone in Game 7, where they overcame a 13-point deficit to clinch the championship. Kobe Bryant’s performance earned him his second consecutive Finals MVP, as the Lakers secured their second straight NBA title.
2010-11 Season – 57-25 Record (2nd in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the Western Conference Semifinals against the Dallas Mavericks (4-0)
Following their back-to-back championships, the 2010-11 Los Angeles Lakers finished with a strong 57-25 record, placing second in the Western Conference. The team continued to rely on the leadership and scoring of Kobe Bryant, who averaged 25.3 points per game. Pau Gasol also remained a key figure, contributing with 18.8 points and 10.2 rebounds per game.
The Lakers entered the playoffs with aspirations of a three-peat, but they encountered a formidable Dallas Mavericks team in the Western Conference Semifinals. The series proved unexpectedly one-sided, with the Mavericks sweeping the Lakers in four games. This surprising exit marked the end of an era, as coach Phil Jackson announced his retirement, signaling significant changes ahead for the Lakers franchise.
2011-12 Season – 41-25 Record (3rd in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the Western Conference Semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder (4-1)
The Los Angeles Lakers faced a transitional season in 2011-12, adjusting to life under new head coach Mike Brown. Despite the changes, they managed to secure a solid 41-25 record in a season shortened by a lockout, finishing third in the Western Conference. Kobe Bryant continued to lead the team effectively, averaging 27.9 points per game, which kept him among the elite players in the league. Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum also played crucial roles, with Bynum’s performance earning him an All-Star nod for the first time in his career.
The playoffs saw the Lakers advancing past the first round but running into a young and dynamic Oklahoma City Thunder team in the semifinals. The Thunder, led by Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, presented a major challenge with their speed and scoring ability. The Lakers were ultimately overwhelmed, losing the series 4-1.
2012-13 Season – 45-37 Record (7th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the First Round against the San Antonio Spurs (4-0)
The 2012-13 season was one of high expectations for the Los Angeles Lakers, following the high-profile acquisitions of Steve Nash and Dwight Howard. Nonetheless, the season was fraught with challenges, including injuries and chemistry issues. Despite these hurdles, the Lakers managed a 45-37 record and snagged the seventh seed in the Western Conference. Kobe Bryant was outstanding, averaging 27.3 points, 6.0 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game before his season was cut short by a devastating Achilles injury.
Entering the playoffs without Bryant, the Lakers lacked the firepower and leadership necessary to contend with the seasoned San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs’ disciplined play and strategic execution led to a swift 4-0 series sweep of the Lakers.
2013-14 Season – 27-55 Record (14th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Did not qualify
The 2013-14 season marked a significant downturn for the Los Angeles Lakers, who struggled with injuries and a lack of cohesion, finishing with a 27-55 record and missing the playoffs entirely. This was their worst record in several decades, landing them 14th in the Western Conference. The season was particularly challenging due to the absence of Kobe Bryant, who was sidelined for most of the year recovering from his Achilles injury and then suffering a knee injury after just six games.
With Kobe out, the Lakers relied on a mix of veterans and younger players, but none could consistently fill the void. Pau Gasol led the team with averages of 17.4 points and 9.7 rebounds per game, but his efforts were not enough to turn around the Lakers’ fortunes.
2014-15 Season – 21-61 Record (14th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Did not qualify
The 2014-15 season continued to be a challenging period for the Los Angeles Lakers, who saw their struggles deepen, finishing with a franchise-low 21-61 record. This dismal finish placed them 14th in the Western Conference for the second consecutive year. The season was marked by a continuing saga of injuries, including another significant setback for Kobe Bryant, who sustained a shoulder injury that limited him to only 35 games.
In Kobe’s absence, the Lakers struggled to find consistent leadership on the court. Young players like Jordan Clarkson began to emerge, showing potential with averages of 11.9 points and 3.5 assists per game, but the team lacked the overall depth and experience needed to compete effectively.
2015-16 Season – 17-65 Record (15th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Did not qualify
Amidst a backdrop of rebuilding and transition, the 2015-16 season turned out to be one of the most challenging in the history of the Los Angeles Lakers, culminating in a record of 17-65. This was the lowest win total in franchise history, relegating them to the last place in the Western Conference. The season was notably Kobe Bryant’s farewell tour, with his retirement marking the end of an era for the Lakers. Kobe still led the team in scoring with 17.6 points per game, despite the evident decline in his physical capabilities.
Throughout the season, the Lakers focused on developing young talents like D’Angelo Russell, Julius Randle, and Jordan Clarkson. Still, the inexperience of the roster and the lack of a supporting cast around Bryant led to many losses.
2016-17 Season – 26-56 Record (14th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Did not qualify
In the first season following Kobe Bryant’s retirement, the Los Angeles Lakers embarked on a new era, finishing with a 26-56 record and placing 14th in the Western Conference. This year was about laying the groundwork for future success, focusing on the development of young talents like D’Angelo Russell, who led the team with averages of 15.6 points and 4.8 assists per game, and Julius Randle, who contributed 13.2 points and 8.6 rebounds per game.
The season also saw the arrival of Brandon Ingram, the Lakers’ 3rd draft pick, who showed flashes of potential throughout his rookie campaign. Despite these hopeful signs, the team continued to struggle with consistency and defensive issues, which was reflected in their record and inability to make a significant push toward playoff contention.
2017-18 Season – 35-47 Record (11th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Did not qualify
The 2017-18 Los Angeles Lakers showed signs of improvement, finishing the season with a 35-47 record and moving up to 11th place in the Western Conference. This season was marked by the continued development of the Lakers’ young core, with Brandon Ingram and rookie Lonzo Ball playing crucial roles. Ingram increased his output to 16.1 points per game, showing growth in his scoring and overall play. Lonzo Ball made headlines with his passing skills and court vision, averaging 7.2 assists per game.
Despite missing the playoffs, the Lakers were more competitive and displayed a more cohesive team dynamic than in previous seasons. Kyle Kuzma, another standout rookie, made a significant impact, averaging 16.1 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, which brought additional energy and scoring to the lineup.
2018-19 Season – 37-45 Record (10th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Did not qualify
The 2018-19 Los Angeles Lakers entered the season with heightened expectations following the acquisition of superstar LeBron James. Yet, despite LeBron’s stellar performance, averaging 27.4 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game, the Lakers fell short of playoff contention with a 37-45 record, finishing 10th in the Western Conference.
Injuries to key players, including LeBron himself, hampered the team’s consistency and chemistry throughout the season. Despite LeBron’s individual brilliance, the supporting cast struggled to find their rhythm, with notable contributions from young talents like Kyle Kuzma and Brandon Ingram, who averaged 18.7 and 18.3 points per game, respectively.
2019-20 Season – 52-19 Record (1st in West)
NBA Playoffs: NBA Champions, defeated the Miami Heat (4-2)
The Los Angeles Lakers emerged as a dominant force in the league for 2019-20, finishing atop the Western Conference with a commanding 52-19 record. Led by LeBron James, who continued to showcase his unparalleled versatility and leadership, averaging 25.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game, the Lakers regained their status as championship contenders. Anthony Davis, in his debut season with the team, provided invaluable support with averages of 26.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, solidifying the Lakers’ formidable duo.
The Lakers entered the playoffs with high expectations, determined to bring another championship to Los Angeles. They navigated through the postseason with poise and determination, overcoming formidable opponents to reach the NBA Finals. Facing the Miami Heat, the Lakers demonstrated their dominance, securing the series victory in six games. LeBron James was named NBA Finals MVP for his exceptional performance.
2020-21 Season – 42-30 Record (7th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the First Round against the Phoenix Suns (4-2)
The Los Angeles Lakers completed the 2020-21 season with a record of 42-30, securing the 7th seed in the competitive Western Conference. Despite facing numerous challenges, including injuries to key players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers displayed resilience and determination throughout the season.
LeBron James, despite missing time due to injury, continued to lead the team with his exceptional play. In 45 games, he maintained impressive averages of 25.0 points, 7.8 assists, and 7.7 rebounds per game. Anthony Davis also provided crucial contributions with averages of 21.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, anchoring the team’s defense and providing scoring punch.
Despite entering the playoffs as the defending champions, the Lakers faced tough competition. In the Western Conference First Round, they battled against the Phoenix Suns. However, the Lakers were unable to overcome the Suns and were eliminated from the playoffs after a hard-fought series, with the Suns clinching the series 4-2.
2021-22 Season – 33-49 Record (11th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Did not qualify
The Los Angeles Lakers faced a tough season in 2021-22, finishing with a disappointing 33-49 record and landing 11th in the Western Conference, missing the playoffs. Despite LeBron James’ stellar performance, averaging 30.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game in 56 appearances, the team struggled to find consistency.
The Lakers made significant roster changes, including trading key players like Kyle Kuzma and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope for Russell Westbrook. However, Westbrook’s tenure with the Lakers was marked by inconsistency, and the trade did not meet expectations. As a result, the team fell short of their playoff aspirations, highlighting the challenges of integrating new talent and achieving success in the NBA.
2022-23 Season – 43-39 Record (7th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost in the Western Conference Finals against the Denver Nuggets (0-4)
The Los Angeles Lakers had a rollercoaster 2022-23 season, finishing with a 43-39 record and securing the 7th seed in the Western Conference. Despite entering the playoffs via the play-in tournament, the Lakers exceeded expectations by reaching the Western Conference Finals.
LeBron James led the charge with his exceptional performance, averaging 28.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game in 55 appearances. His leadership and skill were instrumental in the Lakers’ playoff run. However, their journey came to an end in the Western Conference Finals, where the Denver Nuggets swept them in four games.
2023-24 Season – 47-35 Record (7th in West)
NBA Playoffs: Lost to the Denver Nuggets in the First Round (1-4)
The Los Angeles Lakers concluded the 2023-24 regular season with a record of 47-35, securing the 7th seed in the competitive Western Conference. After a hard-fought play-in victory against the New Orleans Pelicans, the Lakers faced the defending champions in the Denver Nuggets and lost 4-1 in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. This loss showed the team and fans alike that is time for a rebuild in Los Angeles, and the roster must be improved for the last couple of seasons with LeBron James.
LeBron himself showcased his enduring excellence throughout the season, averaging 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game in 71 appearances. His leadership and stellar play was critical even if the Lakers failed to make a deep playoff run.
Overall Conclusion
Over the past four decades, the Los Angeles Lakers have been a dominant force in the NBA, known for their postseason success and ability to compete at the highest level. During this period, the Lakers have reached the NBA Finals 12 times, showcasing their consistency and determination in pursuit of the championship. On the other hand, they have also experienced more challenging seasons, finishing in the fifteenth position in their conference in 2016.
In more recent seasons since the 2010 Championship, the Los Angeles Lakers have been in the playoffs seven times. They got knocked out in the First Round three times (in 2013, 2021, and 2024) and made it to the Second Round four times. They made it as far as the Western Conference Finals in 2023, but they grabbed one NBA Championship in 2020. This season, they got bounced in the First Round once again.
So, to sum it up, in the last 14 seasons, the Lakers have been okay, making some good playoff runs and winning a championship. But when you compare that to their performance over the last 40 seasons, where they won 9 championships, you see they’ve been even better over the long haul.
