Full History Of Los Angeles Lakers In Timeline From 1946

1946: Detroit Gems Founded

In 1946, the Detroit Gems, a team in the National Basketball League (NBL), were founded by businessmen Morris Winston and C. King Boring.

1946: Franchise began as Detroit Gems

In 1946, the franchise started as the Detroit Gems in the National Basketball League (NBL).

1947: Home Games

From 1947 to 1960 the team played their home games at the Minneapolis Auditorium and the Minneapolis Armory.

1947: Lakers Draft George Mikan

In 1947, after having the worst record in the NBL the previous season, the Lakers selected George Mikan in the Professional Basketball League of America dispersal draft.

1948: Lakers move to BAA

In 1948, the Lakers moved from the NBL to the Basketball Association of America (BAA).

1948: Lakers win NBL Championship

In 1948, the Minneapolis Lakers won the NBL championship.

1949: Lakers win BAA Championship

In 1949, the Lakers won the BAA Championship, beating the Washington Capitols. Following the season, the BAA and NBL merged to form the NBA.

1949: Kings and Lakers Face off in Playoffs

In 1949, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Kings faced each other in the playoffs.

1950: Lakers win their third straight championship

In 1950, in the newly formed NBA, the Lakers won their third straight professional championship. Mikan won his third straight scoring title at 28.4 ppg.

1951: Lakers finish second in division

During the 1951–52 season, the Lakers won 40 games, finishing second in their division.

1952: Lakers win NBA Finals against Knicks

In 1952, the Lakers won the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks in seven games.

1953: Mikan named MVP of All-Star Game

In 1953, Mikan led the NBA in rebounding and was named MVP of the 1953 NBA All-Star Game. The Lakers won their second straight championship, defeating the New York Knicks.

1954: Mikan retires, Lakers struggle

Following George Mikan's retirement in the 1954 off-season, the Lakers struggled but still managed to win 40 games.

1954: Max Winter Sells Share to Mikan

In 1954, General Manager Max Winter sold his share of the Lakers to George Mikan.

1954: Lakers Win Fifth NBA Championship

In 1954, the Lakers, then in Minneapolis, won their fifth NBA championship under coach John Kundla.

1955: Mikan Returns

In 1955, George Mikan came back for the last half of the 1955–56 season, but struggled.

1956: Berger Buys Mikan's Share

In 1956, Ben Berger bought George Mikan's share of the Lakers, giving him a controlling interest in the team.

1956: Lakers advanced to Conference Finals

In 1956, the Lakers, led by Clyde Lovellette, advanced to the Conference Finals.

1957: Team Up For Sale

In 1957, after George Mikan's retirement caused attendance to plummet, the ownership group put the Lakers team up for sale.

1957: Lakers Have One Of Worst Seasons

The Lakers had one of the worst seasons in team history in 1957–58 when they won a league-low 19 games.

1958: Bob Short Becomes Majority Owner

By 1958, Bob Short had become 80% owner of the Los Angeles Lakers by buying out his partners, but the team was struggling financially.

1958: Elgin Baylor Drafted

In 1958, Elgin Baylor was the first overall pick for the Los Angeles Lakers.

1958: Lakers Draft Elgin Baylor

In 1958, the Lakers earned the top pick in the NBA draft and used it to select Elgin Baylor.

1959: Elgin Baylor named All-Star Game co-MVP

In 1959, Elgin Baylor was named NBA Rookie of the Year and co-MVP of the 1959 NBA All-Star Game.

1959: Lakers Face Financial Crisis

In 1959, the Los Angeles Lakers lost $60,000 in the first half of the 1959-60 season alone, leading to their eventual relocation to Los Angeles in 1960.

January 18, 1960: Lakers' plane crash-lands

On January 18, 1960, the Lakers' plane crash-landed in a cornfield while traveling to St. Louis after a loss. No one was hurt.

1960: Relocation to Los Angeles

Before the 1960-61 season, the Lakers relocated to Los Angeles due to financial struggles.

1960: Home Games

From 1947 to 1960 the team played their home games at the Minneapolis Auditorium and the Minneapolis Armory.

1961: Lakers improve to 54-26, make finals

Led by Baylor and West, the Lakers improved to 54–26 in 1961–62, and made the finals.

1962: Lakers lost in NBA Finals in six games

In 1962–63, the Los Angeles Lakers won 53 games but lost in the NBA Finals in six games to the Celtics.

1964: Lakers fall to 42-38, losing in first round of NBA playoffs

After falling to 42–38 and losing in the first round of the 1964 NBA playoffs to the Hawks, the team won 49 games in 1964–65.

November 21, 1965: Chick Hearn's Consecutive Games Streak Begins

On November 21, 1965, Chick Hearn began his streak of broadcasting 3,338 consecutive games for the Lakers.

1965: Jack Kent Cooke Buys Lakers

In 1965, Bob Short sold the Los Angeles Lakers to Washington Redskins owner and publisher Jack Kent Cooke for a then-league record amount of $5.175 million.

1966: Los Angeles loses in the finals to Boston

Los Angeles lost in the finals to Boston in seven games again in 1966.

1967: Lakers Play at The Forum

From 1967 to 1999, the Los Angeles Lakers played their home games at The Forum in Inglewood, California.

1967: Construction of The Forum

In 1967, Jack Kent Cooke personally financed the construction of The Forum at a cost of $16.5 million.

1967: Lakers and Warriors Meet in Postseason

In 1967, the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors began a series of postseason meetings that would occur six times between 1967 and 1991, marking a period of growing rivalry between the two teams.

July 9, 1968: Lakers acquire Wilt Chamberlain

On July 9, 1968, the Lakers acquired Wilt Chamberlain from the Philadelphia 76ers.

1968: Lakers lost in the finals to the Celtics

After dropping to 36 wins and losing in the first round of the 1967 NBA playoffs, they lost in the finals to the Celtics again in 1968.

1968: Lakers Acquire Wilt Chamberlain

In 1968, the Lakers acquired four-time NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) Wilt Chamberlain.

1968: Boston Celtics Last Repeat

In 1968-69, The Boston Celtics last repeat as NBA champions.

1970: West wins scoring title

In 1970, Jerry West won his first scoring title at 31.2 ppg, and the team returned to the finals, playing the New York Knicks.

1971: Consecutive Games Won and Road Winning Percentage Record

During the 1971-72 season, the Los Angeles Lakers achieved NBA records for most consecutive games won overall (33) and highest road winning percentage at 0.816.

1971: NBA's longest winning streak

The Lakers hold the record for NBA's longest winning streak, 33 straight games, set in 1971–72.

1972: Lakers win Pacific Division Title

In 1972, The Los Angeles Lakers won 60 games in the season, and took another Pacific Division title.

1972: Lakers win NBA title

In 1972, led by coach Bill Sharman, the Lakers won their sixth NBA title.

1972: Lakers Win 33 Straight Games and NBA Championship

In 1972, the Los Angeles Lakers achieved a 33-game winning streak, setting a record for major American professional team sports. The Lakers also won 69 games that season. The team proceeded to defeat the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals, avenging their 1970 loss. Wilt Chamberlain was named NBA Finals MVP.

1972: Best Regular Season Record

In 1972, the Los Angeles Lakers posted their best regular season record of 69-13.

1973: Lakers reach NBA Finals

In 1973, the Lakers defeated the Chicago Bulls and Golden State Warriors to reach the NBA Finals, where they played the New York Knicks, ultimately losing the series in five games.

1973: Lakers Win Pacific Division Despite West's Injury

In the 1973-74 season, despite Gail Goodrich's performance and a late-season surge, the team finished 47-35 to win the Pacific Division after West played only 31 games due to leg injuries.

1975: Lakers Acquire Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

In 1975, the Lakers acquired Kareem Abdul-Jabbar from Milwaukee for Elmore Smith, Brian Winters, Junior Bridgeman, and Dave Meyers after Abdul-Jabbar requested a trade to either New York or Los Angeles.

1976: KLAC Gets Radio Broadcast Rights

From the 1976-77 season, KLAC had the Lakers' radio broadcast rights.

1976: West Hired as Lakers' Coach

In 1976, Jerry West was hired to replace Bill Sharman as the Lakers' coach. The Lakers won the Pacific Division with a 53-29 record and reached the Western Conference Finals. Los Angeles picked up Jamaal Wilkes and signed Norm Nixon during the off-season.

1976: Most Wins at Home

In 1976-77 the lakers had 37-4 in both, most wins at home in the regular season.

1977: Abdul-Jabbar Injured After Punching Kent Benson

In 1977, during the first game of the season, Abdul-Jabbar broke his hand after punching Bucks center Kent Benson.

1977: KCAL-TV Becomes Over-the-Air Broadcaster

Since 1977, KCAL had been the Lakers' over-the-air television broadcaster, the longest relationship between an NBA team and a television station.

1978: Kermit Washington punches Rudy Tomjanovich

In 1978, Lakers' Kermit Washington punched Rudy Tomjanovich during an altercation, resulting in severe injuries that ended Tomjanovich's career. Washington was suspended and released by the Lakers.

1979: Jerry Buss purchases Lakers

In 1979, Jerry Buss purchased the Lakers, pioneering a vision of basketball as entertainment. Also, the Lakers drafted Magic Johnson first overall in the 1979 NBA draft.

1979: Magic Johnson Drafted

In 1979, Magic Johnson was the first overall pick for the Los Angeles Lakers.

1979: Most Wins at Home

In 1979-80 the lakers had 37-4 in both, most wins at home in the regular season.

1979: Lakers Draft Magic Johnson

In the 1979 NBA draft, the Los Angeles Lakers selected Magic Johnson as the first overall pick from Michigan State.

1979: Lakers traded with Cleveland

Midway through the 1979-80 season, The Lakers traded Don Ford and a 1980 first-round pick to the Cavaliers for Butch Lee and their 1982 selection

1980: Lakers Win NBA Championship

In 1980, the Lakers won 60 games and defeated the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA Finals. Magic Johnson won the Finals MVP award, scoring 42 points, 15 rebounds, and seven assists in game six while playing center for the injured Abdul-Jabbar.

1980: Lakers Lost Magic Johnson to Knee Injury

In the 1980–81 season, the Lakers lost Magic Johnson for most of the season to a knee injury.

1981: Johnson Criticizes Westhead, Riley Appointed "Co-Head Coach"

Early in the 1981-82 season, Magic Johnson complained about head coach Paul Westhead, leading to Westhead's firing. Pat Riley was then promoted to "co-head coach" with Jerry West in November, sparking the "Showtime" era.

1981: Pat Riley becomes head coach

In 1981, Pat Riley was promoted to head coach of the Lakers.

1982: James Worthy Drafted

In 1982, James Worthy was the first overall pick for the Los Angeles Lakers.

1982: Lakers Win NBA Championship and Draft James Worthy

In 1982, the Lakers won the Pacific Division title and defeated the 76ers in the NBA Finals, finishing with a 12-2 playoff record. On draft night, they selected James Worthy with the first overall pick.

1982: Lakers draft James Worthy

In the 1982 draft, the Lakers added forward James Worthy, solidifying their status as an NBA powerhouse.

1983: Lakers Reach NBA Finals

In 1983, the Lakers advanced to the NBA Finals after defeating Portland and San Antonio, but lost to the Philadelphia 76ers in four games.

1983: Lakers Face Celtics in Finals

In the 1983-84 season, the Los Angeles Lakers went 54-28 and played the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals for the first time since 1969.

1984: Highest Field-Goal Percentage Record

During the 1984-85 season, the Los Angeles Lakers achieved the NBA record for highest field-goal percentage for a season at 54.5%.

1984: Lakers defeated by Celtics in Finals

In the 1984 NBA Finals, the Lakers were defeated by their archrivals, the Boston Celtics.

1985: Kings Move to Sacramento

In 1985, the Kings moved to Sacramento, California, establishing a geographical connection with the Los Angeles Lakers and contributing to their rivalry.

1985: Lakers triumph over Celtics in Finals

In 1985, the Lakers triumphed over the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals.

1985: Most Wins at Home

In the 1985-86 season, the Boston Celtics set the current record of 40-1, most wins at home in the regular season, surpassing the lakers.

1985: Lakers Win 62 Games and Division Title

In the 1985-86 season, the Lakers started 24-3 and won 62 games, securing their fifth straight division title. However, they were defeated by the Houston Rockets in the Western Conference Finals.

1985: Lakers on Fox Sports West

The Lakers had been on Fox Sports West since 1985, dating to when it was the original Prime Ticket.

1986: Lakers Acquire Mychal Thompson

Prior to the 1986-87 season, the Lakers acquired Mychal Thompson from the Spurs and moved A.C. Green into the starting lineup.

1987: Lakers defeat Celtics in Finals

In 1987, the Lakers defeated the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals.

1987: Lakers Win Seventh Consecutive Pacific Division Title

In the 1987-88 season, the Lakers won their seventh consecutive Pacific Division title with a 62-20 record.

1987: Michael Cooper wins Defensive Player of the Year

In the 1989-90 season, following the season, 1987 Defensive Player of the Year winner Michael Cooper decided to play in Europe and was waived at his request.

1988: Forum Renamed Great Western Forum

In 1988, Jerry Buss started the trend of allowing sponsors to add their name to the Los Angeles Lakers' stadium when he renamed the Forum to the Great Western Forum.

1988: Lakers Win 1988 NBA Finals

In 1988, the Los Angeles Lakers won the NBA Finals against the Detroit Pistons in 7 games.

1988: Lakers Win Pacific Division, Reach NBA Finals

In the 1988-89 season, the Los Angeles Lakers won 57 games and their eighth consecutive Pacific Division crown. They reached the NBA Finals, where they were swept by the Detroit Pistons.

June 28, 1989: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Announces Retirement

On June 28, 1989, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar announced his retirement after 20 professional seasons.

1989: Pistons Win 1989 NBA Finals

In 1989, the Detroit Pistons won the NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers in 4 games.

1989: Red Hot Chili Peppers' "Magic Johnson"

In 1989, the Red Hot Chili Peppers released the song "Magic Johnson" on their album Mother's Milk, as a tribute to the former Los Angeles Lakers point guard.

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November 7, 1991: Magic Johnson Announces Retirement Due to HIV

On November 7, 1991, Magic Johnson announced that he had tested positive for HIV and would retire immediately.

1991: Lakers and Warriors Meet in Postseason

In 1991, the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors concluded a series of postseason meetings that had occurred six times between 1967 and 1991.

1991: Lakers Reach NBA Finals

In the 1990-91 season, the Lakers reached the NBA Finals, their ninth trip in 12 years, where they were defeated by the Chicago Bulls in five games.

1993: Lakers lose 43 games

In 1993, the Lakers, under Randy Pfund, had a losing season with 43 losses, their first since 1976. Despite this, they made the playoffs, becoming the first eighth seed to win the first two games on the road against the top-seeded Phoenix team, but eventually lost the series.

1994: Eddie Jones Drafted

In 1994, Eddie Jones was a lottery pick, selected tenth overall by the Los Angeles Lakers.

1995: Magic Johnson returns as a player

In 1995, Magic Johnson came out of retirement to play for the Lakers again. He led the team to a 29-11 finish after they were 24-18. After disagreements and a first round loss to the Rockets, Johnson retired for the final time.

1996: Lakers acquire Kobe Bryant and sign Shaquille O'Neal

In 1996, the Lakers acquired 17-year-old Kobe Bryant from the Charlotte Hornets for Vlade Divac. They also signed free-agent Shaquille O'Neal. O'Neal led the team to a 56-26 record, despite missing 31 games due to a knee injury.

1997: Lakers start season 11-0

In the 1997-98 season, O'Neal and the Lakers had the best start in franchise history, 11-0. Los Angeles finished 61-21, but still finished second to Seattle in the standings.

1998: Eddie Jones and Elden Campbell traded to the Charlotte Hornets

During the 1998-99 season, All-Star guard Eddie Jones and center Elden Campbell were traded to the Charlotte Hornets. Del Harris was fired in February.

1999: Lakers hire Phil Jackson as head coach

Before the 1999-2000 season, The Los Angeles Lakers hired former Chicago Bulls coach Phil Jackson, who had coached that team to six championships.

1999: Lakers Move to Staples Center

In 1999, the Los Angeles Lakers moved to Crypto.com Arena after playing at the Forum for 32 seasons.

1999: Spurs Win NBA Championship

In 1999, the San Antonio Spurs won the NBA Championship, initiating a period where the Spurs and Lakers dominated the NBA, appearing in seven consecutive NBA Finals from 1999 to 2005.

1999: Crypto.com Arena Opens

In fall 1999, the Crypto.com Arena opened in downtown Los Angeles, becoming the home of the Los Angeles Lakers and seating up to 18,997 fans for Lakers games.

2000: Lakers move to the Staples Center

Before the 1999-2000 season, The Los Angeles Lakers moved to a new arena, the Staples Center.

2000: Lakers win NBA Championship

In 2000, led by Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O'Neal, and coach Phil Jackson, the Lakers won the NBA championship.

2000: Bryant awarded league MVP award

In the 2007-08 season, Bryant was awarded the league's MVP award, becoming the first Laker to win the award since O'Neal in 2000.

2000: Best Playoff Record

The 2000–01 Los Angeles Lakers team set the NBA record for best playoff record at 15–1.

December 16, 2001: Chick Hearn's Consecutive Games Streak Ends

On December 16, 2001, Chick Hearn's streak ended after broadcasting 3,338 consecutive games for the Lakers.

2001: Lakers Win NBA Championship

In 2001, the Los Angeles Lakers won the NBA Championship.

2001: Lakers defeat the Sacramento Kings in the Western Conference Finals

In 2001-02, the Lakers defeated Sacramento after a seven-game series and went on to sweep the New Jersey Nets in the NBA Finals to achieve a three-peat.

2002: Lakers Attendance in Top Ten

From 2002 to 2007 the team averaged just over 18,900 fans, which placed them in the top ten in the NBA in attendance.

2002: Chick Hearn's Death

In 2002, Chick Hearn, the Lakers' long-time broadcaster, passed away. Paul Sunderland replaced him as the permanent play-by-play announcer, while Stu Lantz was retained as the color commentator.

2002: Lakers win NBA Championship

In 2002, led by Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O'Neal, and coach Phil Jackson, the Lakers won their third consecutive NBA championship, securing their second "three-peat".

2002: Lakers Win Western Conference Finals

In 2002, the Los Angeles Lakers won the Western Conference Finals against the Kings in a series marked by controversial calls. The Lakers won the series in game 7.

2002: Lakers attempt a four-peat

In 2002-03, the Lakers attempted a four-peat, but were eliminated by San Antonio in six games in the second round.

2003: Spurs Win NBA Championship

In 2003, the San Antonio Spurs won the NBA Championship. Between 1999 and 2003, the Spurs and Lakers combined to win five NBA championships.

2003: Lakers sign Karl Malone and Gary Payton

In the 2003-04 season, the Lakers signed Karl Malone and Gary Payton to join O'Neal and Bryant.

2004: Lakers trade Rick Fox and Gary Payton to Boston

Before the 2004-05 season The Lakers also traded Rick Fox and Gary Payton to Boston, for Chris Mihm, Marcus Banks, and Chucky Atkins

2004: Shaquille O'Neal traded to the Miami Heat

During the 2004 off-season, O'Neal was traded to the Miami Heat for Lamar Odom, Brian Grant, Caron Butler, and a first-round draft pick. Jackson did not return as head coach.

2004: Premier NBA Rivalry

From 1999 to 2004, the rivalry between the San Antonio Spurs and the Los Angeles Lakers was often considered the premier rivalry in the NBA, with the winner of their playoff series advancing to the NBA Finals each time.

2004: Pistons Win 2004 NBA Finals

In 2004, the Detroit Pistons defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in five games to win the NBA Finals.

2004: Lakers Trade Away Shaquille O'Neal

In 2004, the Lakers traded away Shaquille O'Neal after losing to the Detroit Pistons in the NBA Finals, marking the end of the "Shaq-and-Kobe" era.

February 13, 2005: Karl Malone announces his retirement

On February 13, 2005, Karl Malone announced his retirement after sitting out the first half of the 2004-05 season

2005: Andrew Bynum Drafted

In 2005, Andrew Bynum was a lottery pick, selected tenth overall by the Los Angeles Lakers.

2005: Phil Jackson Coaching Stint

In 2005, Phil Jackson had two stints as the Los Angeles Lakers head coach.

2005: Spurs Win NBA Championship

In 2005, the San Antonio Spurs won the NBA Championship. From 1999 to 2005 the Lakers and Spurs appeared in seven consecutive NBA Finals.

2005: Lakers select Andrew Bynum in the NBA draft

In the 2005 NBA draft, the Lakers selected Andrew Bynum. They also traded Caron Butler and Chucky Atkins to Washington for Kwame Brown and Laron Profit.

2005: Paul Sunderland's Contract Expired

In the summer of 2005, Paul Sunderland's contract as play-by-play announcer expired and was not renewed by the Lakers. Joel Meyers moved in alongside Lantz as the television announcer, with Spero Dedes and former Laker player Mychal Thompson on the radio.

January 22, 2006: Kobe Bryant scores 81 points against Toronto

On January 22, 2006, Kobe Bryant scored 81 points against Toronto, the second-highest total in NBA history.

2007: Lakers re-acquire Derek Fisher

After re-acquiring Derek Fisher, the Lakers started the 2007-08 season with a 25-11 record

2007: Lakers Attendance in Top Ten

From 2002 to 2007 the team averaged just over 18,900 fans, which placed them in the top ten in the NBA in attendance.

2007: Spurs Win NBA Championship

In 2007, the San Antonio Spurs won the NBA Championship.

2008: Lakers lose to Celtics in NBA Finals

In 2008, after trading for Pau Gasol, Kobe Bryant and Phil Jackson returned to the NBA Finals, losing to the Boston Celtics.

2008: Lakers Sell Out Every Home Game

In 2008, the Los Angeles Lakers sold out every home game.

2008: Spurs and Lakers Meet in Western Conference Finals

In 2008, the San Antonio Spurs and Los Angeles Lakers met in the Western Conference Finals, where the Spurs were defeated.

2008: Lakers acquire Pau Gasol

In the 2007-08 season, the Lakers acquired Pau Gasol. In the 2008-09 season, The Lakers defeated the Jazz in five games, the Rockets in seven and the Nuggets in six, to win the Western Conference title.

2008: End of KLAC Broadcast Rights

The Lakers radio broadcast rights ended to KLAC in the 2008-09 season.

October 9, 2009: 50th Anniversary Preseason Game

On October 9, 2009, the Los Angeles Lakers hosted a preseason game versus the Golden State Warriors at the Forum to commemorate the team's 50th-anniversary season in Los Angeles.

2009: Lakers Radio Broadcasts on KSPN

Beginning in the 2009-10 season, Lakers radio broadcasts were heard on KSPN (Los Angeles ESPN Radio affiliate) in English and KWKW in Spanish.

2009: Phil Jackson Breaks Regular-Season Wins Record

In 2009, Phil Jackson broke Pat Riley's record for regular-season wins as head coach of the Lakers.

2009: Lakers win NBA Championship

In 2009, led by Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, and Phil Jackson, the Lakers won the NBA championship.

2009: Major Sponsors and High Ticket Prices

In 2009, the Los Angeles Lakers had major sponsors including Verizon Wireless, Toyota, Anheuser-Busch, American Express, and Carl's Jr., and the team's $113 average ticket price was the highest in the league.

2009: Lakers add Ron Artest to the starting lineup

In the 2009-10 season, the Lakers added Ron Artest (Metta World Peace) in place of Trevor Ariza in their starting lineup.

2009: Most Wins Record

Into the 2009–10 season, the Lakers hold records for having the most wins (3,027), the highest winning percentage (61.9%), and the most NBA Finals appearances (31).

January 13, 2010: Lakers win 3,000 regular-season games

On January 13, 2010, the Lakers became the first team in NBA history to win 3,000 regular-season games by defeating the Dallas Mavericks 100–95.

June 2010: Frank Selvy miss still haunts him

In June 2010, Frank Selvy said that missing a potential game-winning 18-foot jump shot in regulation of game seven of the 1962 NBA Finals still haunted him more than 40 years later.

2010: Phil Jackson returns for the 2010-11 season

After much speculation, head coach Phil Jackson returned for the 2010–11 season. After the season, it was announced that Jackson will not be returning to coach the Lakers.

2010: Jerry Buss Elected to Basketball Hall of Fame

In 2010, Jerry Buss was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame.

2010: Phil Jackson Passes Riley's Playoff Records

In 2010, Phil Jackson surpassed Pat Riley's records for playoff wins and games coached as head coach of the Lakers.

2010: Lakers win their 16th title

In 2010, the Lakers won their 16th NBA title, defeating the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals.

2010: Most Popular Team Merchandise

In 2010, the Los Angeles Lakers had the most popular team merchandise among all NBA teams, and Kobe Bryant had the most popular jersey.

2010: Lakers Win NBA Championship

In 2010, the Los Angeles Lakers won the NBA Championship.

February 14, 2011: Time Warner Cable and Lakers Announce New Sports Networks

On February 14, 2011, Time Warner Cable and the Lakers announced the formation of two new regional sports networks (one in English, one in Spanish) that would exclusively televise the team's games and related programming for 20 years.

May 2011: Mike Brown Named Head Coach

In May 2011, Mike Brown was named as the new head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2011-12 season, replacing Phil Jackson.

May 25, 2011: Mike Brown Hired as Head Coach

On May 25, 2011, Mike Brown, former head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers, was hired as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers following Phil Jackson's retirement.

2011: Bill Macdonald New Play-By-Play Announcer

For the 2011-12 season, Bill Macdonald became the new television play-by-play announcer, joining Stu Lantz who remained as the color analyst. John Ireland joined Mychal Thompson to call the games on radio.

2011: Phil Jackson retires

In 2011, Lakers coach Phil Jackson retired.

2011: Telecasts Split Between KCAL-TV and Fox Sports West

Until 2011, Lakers telecasts had been split between KCAL-TV (road games) and Fox Sports West (home games), unless they are chosen for national broadcasts on ABC.

July 4, 2012: Steve Nash Agrees to Sign-and-Trade Deal

On July 4, 2012, Steve Nash of the Phoenix Suns agreed to a sign-and-trade deal to join the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for draft picks and cash.

July 11, 2012: Steve Nash Trade Becomes Official

On July 11, 2012, the trade that sent Steve Nash to the Los Angeles Lakers became official on the first day the trade moratorium was lifted.

August 10, 2012: Lakers Acquire Dwight Howard

On August 10, 2012, the Los Angeles Lakers acquired Dwight Howard in a four-team trade, forming a 'superteam' with Bryant and Gasol.

November 9, 2012: Mike Brown Relieved of Coaching Duties

On November 9, 2012, Mike Brown was relieved of his coaching duties after the Lakers started the 2012-13 season with a 1-4 record.

November 12, 2012: Mike D'Antoni Hired as Head Coach

On November 12, 2012, Mike D'Antoni was hired as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

2012: New Sports Networks Televise Team Games

Starting with the 2012-13 season, the two sports networks would exclusively televise team games and related programming for 20 years.

February 18, 2013: Lakers Owner Jerry Buss Dies

On February 18, 2013, Jerry Buss, the owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, passed away from cancer at the age of 80.

March 30, 2013: Kobe Bryant Passes Wilt Chamberlain in All-Time Scoring

On March 30, 2013, Kobe Bryant surpassed Wilt Chamberlain to become the fourth all-time leading scorer in NBA history during a game against the Sacramento Kings.

April 16, 2013: Lakers Clinch Playoff Berth

On April 16, 2013, the Los Angeles Lakers clinched a playoff berth as the seventh seed in the Western Conference after defeating the Houston Rockets.

December 8, 2013: Kobe Bryant Returns After Achilles Injury

On December 8, 2013, Kobe Bryant played his first game since tearing his Achilles tendon on April 12, 2013.

December 17, 2013: Kobe Bryant Suffers Knee Injury

On December 17, 2013, Kobe Bryant suffered a broken bone in his knee and was sidelined for the rest of the season.

2013: Mike D'Antoni Resigned

At the end of the 2013-14 season, Mike D'Antoni resigned as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

2013: Jeanie Buss Becomes Controlling Owner

In 2013, Jeanie Buss became the controlling owner of the Los Angeles Lakers after Jerry Buss's death, managing the team on behalf of the entire family.

2013: Spurs Beat Lakers

In 2013, the San Antonio Spurs beat the Los Angeles Lakers after having been defeated by them in 2008.

2013: Forbes Valued Lakers at $1 Billion

In 2013, upon Jerry Buss's death, Forbes valued the Los Angeles Lakers at $1 billion.

March 25, 2014: Lakers Score Franchise-Record 51 Points in a Quarter

On March 25, 2014, the Los Angeles Lakers scored 51 points in the third quarter against the New York Knicks, setting a franchise record for most points in a quarter.

April 30, 2014: Mike D'Antoni Resigns as Head Coach

On April 30, 2014, Mike D'Antoni resigned from his position as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers after a 27–55 season.

July 2014: Byron Scott Hired as Head Coach

In July 2014, Byron Scott was hired as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

July 28, 2014: Byron Scott Hired as Head Coach

On July 28, 2014, Byron Scott signed a multi-year contract to become the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

2014: Julius Randle Drafted

In 2014, Julius Randle was a lottery pick, selected seventh overall by the Los Angeles Lakers.

2014: Pau Gasol departs

In 2014, Pau Gasol left the Lakers.

2014: Spurs Win NBA Championship

In 2014, the San Antonio Spurs won the NBA championship.

November 30, 2015: Kobe Bryant Announces Retirement

On November 30, 2015, Kobe Bryant announced that he would retire at the end of the season, concluding his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers.

2015: Byron Scott Fired

After the 2015-16 season ended, Byron Scott was fired as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

2015: D'Angelo Russell Drafted

In 2015, D'Angelo Russell was a lottery pick, selected second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers.

April 24, 2016: Lakers Decline Byron Scott's Option

On April 24, 2016, the Los Angeles Lakers announced that they would not exercise their option on Byron Scott's contract for the following season.

April 29, 2016: Luke Walton Named Head Coach

On April 29, 2016, former Lakers player Luke Walton was named as the head coach, replacing Byron Scott.

2016: Brandon Ingram Drafted

In 2016, Brandon Ingram was a lottery pick, selected second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers.

2016: Kobe Bryant retires

In 2016, Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant retired.

2016: Time Warner Cable SportsNet Renamed

In 2016, Time Warner Cable SportsNet was renamed Spectrum SportsNet upon Charter Communications' purchase of Time Warner Cable.

2016: Worst Regular Season Record

In 2016, the Los Angeles Lakers posted their worst regular season record of 17-65.

February 2017: Jeanie Buss Fires Jim Buss

In February 2017, Jeanie Buss fired Jim Buss after several disappointing seasons, leading to a legal dispute over control of the Los Angeles Lakers.

February 21, 2017: Mitch Kupchak Fired, Magic Johnson Appointed

On February 21, 2017, the Los Angeles Lakers fired general manager Mitch Kupchak, and Magic Johnson was named as the president of basketball operations.

March 7, 2017: Rob Pelinka Hired as General Manager

On March 7, 2017, the Los Angeles Lakers hired Rob Pelinka as their general manager, signing him to a five-year deal.

March 2017: Buss Children Manage Family Trusts

In March 2017, Jerry Buss' six children managed the family's 66% controlling stake in the Los Angeles Lakers via four related trusts, co-managed by Jeanie, Janie, and Johnny Buss.

2017: Lonzo Ball Drafted

In 2017, Lonzo Ball was a lottery pick, selected second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers.

2017: Playoff Record Broken

In 2017, the Golden State Warriors broke the Los Angeles Lakers' 2000-01 record of 15-1 for best playoff record.

July 2, 2018: Randle Renounced by the Lakers

On July 2, 2018, Randle was renounced by the Los Angeles Lakers.

July 9, 2018: LeBron James Signs with the Lakers

On July 9, 2018, LeBron James signed a four-year, $154 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers.

2018: Luke Walton Coaching Tenure End

At the end of the 2018-19 season, Luke Walton was no longer the head coach.

2018: Lakers sign LeBron James

In 2018, the Lakers signed superstar LeBron James.

February 7, 2019: Zubac Traded to Clippers

On February 7, 2019, Zubac was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers along with Michael Beasley in exchange for Mike Muscala.

April 9, 2019: Magic Johnson Steps Down

On April 9, 2019, Magic Johnson stepped down as the team's president of basketball operations.

May 13, 2019: Frank Vogel Named Head Coach

On May 13, 2019, Frank Vogel was named as the new head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers on a multiyear deal.

2019: Death of JoAnn Buss

In 2019, JoAnn Buss, Jerry Buss' ex-wife, passed away, leaving a portion of the Lakers shares that were reserved for her.

2019: Lakers trade for Anthony Davis

In 2019, the Lakers traded several prospects for star big man Anthony Davis.

January 25, 2020: LeBron James Passes Kobe Bryant in Scoring

On January 25, 2020, LeBron James surpassed Kobe Bryant for third place on the NBA's all-time scoring list during a game in Philadelphia.

2020: Lakers win 17th Championship

In 2020, led by LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and coach Frank Vogel, the Lakers won their 17th NBA championship.

2021: Jersey Sponsor with Bibigo

During the 2021 season, the Los Angeles Lakers started a jersey sponsorship with Bibigo.

2021: Frank Vogel Coaching Tenure

Frank Vogel was fired following the conclusion of the 2021-22 season.

June 6, 2022: Darvin Ham Named Head Coach

On June 6, 2022, Darvin Ham was named as the new head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

December 9, 2023: Lakers Win NBA In-Season Tournament

On December 9, 2023, the Los Angeles Lakers won the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament, defeating the Indiana Pacers in the championship game, and Lebron James was named tournament MVP.

May 3, 2024: Darvin Ham Fired

On May 3, 2024, Darvin Ham was fired by the Lakers after being eliminated in Game 5 of the first round by the Denver Nuggets.

June 20, 2024: JJ Redick Hired as Head Coach

On June 20, 2024, JJ Redick was hired as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

June 24, 2024: JJ Redick Hired as Head Coach

On June 24, 2024, former NBA player JJ Redick was hired as the 29th coach in team history.

June 27, 2024: Lakers Draft Bronny James

On June 27, 2024, the Lakers selected Bronny James, son of LeBron James, at 55th overall in the 2024 NBA draft.

October 2024: Lakers Valued at $7.1 Billion by Forbes

In October 2024, Forbes estimated that the Los Angeles Lakers were the third-most-valuable team in basketball, with a value of $7.1 billion.

October 23, 2024: First Father-Son Duo Play Together in NBA History

On October 23, 2024, LeBron James and his son Bronny James became the first father-son duo to play together in NBA history during the Lakers' season opening game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

2024: Lakers Ownership Structure in 2024

As of 2024, the Los Angeles Lakers' ownership is divided among the Buss Family Trusts (66%), Mark Walter (20%), Todd Boehly (7%), Patrick Soon-Shiong (4%), and Ed Roski Jr. (3%).

2024: Tied with Celtics for most titles

In 2024, The Lakers tied the Celtics for the most titles.

2024: Celtics Surpass Lakers in Championship Titles

In 2024, the Boston Celtics surpassed the Los Angeles Lakers for the highest number of NBA championship titles. The Celtics won their 18th title during the 2024 NBA Finals, moving ahead of the Lakers who have 17.

February 1, 2025: Lakers Trade For Luka Dončić

On February 1, 2025, the Lakers traded Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round pick in 2029 for all-star guard Luka Dončić, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris.