Full History Of Los Angeles Lakers In Timeline From 1946

1946: Franchise Began as Detroit Gems

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

1946: Detroit Gems Founded

In the 1946, the Detroit Gems were founded by Morris Winston and C. King Boring and began playing in the 1946-47 season.

1947: Lakers home games at Minneapolis Auditorium and Armory

In 1947, the Lakers began playing their home games at the Minneapolis Auditorium and the Minneapolis Armory.

1947: Selection of George Mikan

In 1947, the franchise had the first pick in the Professional Basketball League of America dispersal draft and selected George Mikan.

1948: Move to BAA

In 1948, the Lakers moved from the NBL to the Basketball Association of America (BAA), and George Mikan set a BAA record with a 28.3 point per game (ppg) scoring average.

1948: NBL Championship

In 1948, the Minneapolis Lakers won the NBL championship.

1949: John Kundla Coaches Lakers to BAA/NBA Championship

In 1949, John Kundla coached the Lakers to their first BAA/NBA championship.

1949: BAA Championship Win

In 1949, the Lakers won the BAA championship, beating the Washington Capitols four games to two.

1949: Kings and Lakers in Playoffs

In 1949, the Los Angeles Lakers faced the Sacramento Kings in the playoffs, marking the first of nine playoff matchups between the two teams from 1949 to 2002.

1950: Third Straight Championship

In 1950, in the newly formed NBA, the Lakers improved their record to 51–17 and won their third straight professional championship.

1951: Second in division during the 1951-52 season

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

1952: NBA Finals Win

In 1952, the Lakers faced the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals, which they won in seven games.

1953: NBA Finals Win

In 1953, the Lakers defeated the New York Knicks to win their second straight championship.

1954: Struggles after Mikan's Retirement

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

In 1954, General manager Max Winter sold his share of the club to Mikan.

1954: John Kundla Coaches Lakers to Fifth BAA/NBA Championship

In 1954, John Kundla coached the Lakers to their fifth BAA/NBA championship.

1955: Mikan's brief return

George Mikan came back for the last half of the 1955-56 season, but struggled and retired for good after the season.

1956: Berger Buys Mikan's Share

In 1956, Berger bought Mikan's share in the Lakers franchise, giving him a controlling interest.

1956: Advance to the Conference Finals

In 1956-57, Led by Clyde Lovellette, the Lakers advanced to the Conference Finals.

1957: Team Put Up for Sale

In 1957, after Mikan retired, the team lost money for several seasons, leading the ownership group to put the team up for sale.

1957: Worst season in Team History

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

1958: Short Becomes Majority Owner

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

1958: Elgin Baylor selected first overall

In 1958, Elgin Baylor was selected as the first overall pick by the Lakers.

1958: Drafting of Elgin Baylor

In the 1958 NBA draft, the Lakers earned the top pick and selected Elgin Baylor.

1959: Return to NBA Finals

In 1959, after upsetting the Hawks in six games in the division finals, the Lakers returned to the NBA Finals, but were swept by the Celtics.

1959: Team Losses

The Los Angeles Lakers lost $60,000 in the first half of the 1959-60 season alone.

January 18, 1960: Plane Crash-Landing

On January 18, 1960, the Lakers' plane crash-landed in a cornfield while traveling to St. Louis due to snowstorms, but no one was hurt.

1960: Relocation to Los Angeles

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

1960: Lakers home games at Minneapolis Auditorium and Armory

In 1960, the Lakers concluded their time playing home games at the Minneapolis Auditorium and the Minneapolis Armory.

1961: Improvement to 54-26

In 1961-62, led by Elgin Baylor and Jerry West, the Lakers improved to 54-26 and made the finals.

1962: Loss in NBA Finals to Celtics

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

1964: Loss to Hawks in NBA Playoffs

After falling to 42-38, in 1964, the Lakers lost in the first round of the NBA playoffs to the Hawks.

November 21, 1965: Chick Hearn begins streak of consecutive broadcasts

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

1965: Short Sells Team to Cooke

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

1966: Loss in NBA Finals to Boston

In 1966, Los Angeles lost in the NBA finals to Boston in seven games again, this time by two points.

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 the Golden State Warriors initiated a series of six postseason matchups that would occur between 1967 and 1991.

July 9, 1968: Acquisition of Wilt Chamberlain

On July 9, 1968, the Lakers acquired Wilt Chamberlain from the Philadelphia 76ers for Darrell Imhoff, Archie Clark, and Jerry Chambers.

1968: Loss in NBA Finals to Celtics

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

1968: Riley declares Lakers will repeat as champions like the 1968-69 Celtics

At the Lakers' 1986-87 championship celebration, coach Riley declared that Los Angeles would repeat as NBA champions, which no team had done since the 1968-69 Boston Celtics.

1968: Acquisition of Wilt Chamberlain

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

1969: Highest single-game playoff scoring output since 1969

In 1996, The Lakers defeated the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round of the playoffs as O'Neal scored 46 points in Game 1 against the Trail Blazers, marking the highest single-game playoff scoring output by a Laker since Jerry West scored 53 against the Celtics in 1969.

1969: Lakers play Boston in the Finals for the first time since 1969

In the 1983-84 season, the Los Angeles Lakers played Boston in the Finals for the first time since 1969.

1970: Finals Appearance Against Knicks

In 1970, Jerry West won his first scoring title at 31.2 ppg, and the team returned to the finals, where they played the New York Knicks, who defeated them 4–3.

1970: Lakers lost to the New York Knicks

In 1970, the Los Angeles Lakers lost in the NBA Finals to the New York Knicks.

1971: Consecutive Games Won and Road Winning Percentage

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

1971: Longest winning streak in NBA History

In 1971, the Lakers set the record for the NBA's longest winning streak with 33 straight games, which lasted until 1972.

1972: Sixth NBA Title

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

1972: Best Record Posted by Lakers

In 1972, the Los Angeles Lakers posted their best record, 69–13.

1972: Lakers win 33 straight games and NBA Championship

In 1972, the Los Angeles Lakers set a record for the longest winning streak in major American professional team sports by winning 33 straight games. They also won 69 games that season. The Lakers reached the finals against the New York Knicks, avenging their 1970 loss by winning 4 games to 1, and Chamberlain won the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award.

1972: Lakers win 60 games and Pacific Division title

In 1972, the Los Angeles Lakers won 60 games and secured another Pacific Division title. Wilt Chamberlain led the league in rebounding.

1973: West plays only 31 games before his legs gave out

During the 1973-74 season, West played only 31 games before his legs gave out. The Lakers rallied late in the season to win the Pacific Division.

1973: Lakers lose to the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals

In 1973, the Los Angeles Lakers lost to the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals after winning the first game of the series.

1975: Lakers acquire Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

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

1976: KLAC gains radio broadcast rights

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

1976: West replaces Sharman as coach

In 1976, Jerry West settled his differences with Jack Kent Cooke and replaced Bill Sharman as the Lakers' coach. The Lakers won the Pacific Division with a league-best 53-29 record, led by another MVP season from Abdul-Jabbar.

1976: 37-4 Home Record

In 1976-77, the Lakers achieved a 37-4 home record.

1976: First losing season since 1976

In 1992-93 season, the Lakers had their first losing season since 1976.

1977: Abdul-Jabbar punches Kent Benson

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

1977: KCAL-TV becomes over-the-air television 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, Kermit Washington punched Rudy Tomjanovich during a game, causing severe injuries and prematurely ending Tomjanovich's career. Washington was suspended by the NBA and released by the Lakers.

1979: Jerry Buss Buys the Lakers

In 1979, Jerry Buss bought the Los Angeles Lakers, the Los Angeles Kings, the Forum, and some real estate from Jack Kent Cooke for $67.5 million, with the Lakers constituting $16 million of the deal.

1979: Buss Purchase and Johnson Draft

In 1979, Jerry Buss purchased the Lakers. Also in 1979, the Lakers drafted Magic Johnson first overall in the NBA draft.

1979: Magic Johnson selected first overall

In 1979, Magic Johnson was selected as the first overall pick by the Lakers.

1979: 37-4 Home Record

In 1979-80, the Lakers achieved a 37-4 home record.

1979: Lakers draft Magic Johnson

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

1980: Lakers win NBA Finals; Magic Johnson named MVP

In 1980, the Los Angeles Lakers won 60 games and defeated the Philadelphia 76ers in six games to win the NBA Finals. Magic Johnson won the Finals MVP award, scoring 42 points, 15 rebounds, and seven assists in game six.

1981: Johnson complains about Westhead and demands a trade

Early in the 1981-82 season, Magic Johnson complained to the media about head coach Paul Westhead and demanded a trade.

1981: Promotion of Pat Riley

In 1981, Pat Riley was promoted to head coach.

1982: James Worthy selected first overall

In 1982, James Worthy was selected as the first overall pick by the Lakers.

1982: Lakers win NBA Championship

In 1982, the Los Angeles Lakers, nicknamed "Showtime," won the Pacific Division title and defeated the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA Finals 4-2. They also drafted James Worthy.

1982: Drafting of James Worthy

In the 1982 NBA draft, the Lakers added James Worthy to their roster.

1983: Lakers lose to the Sixers in the NBA Finals

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

1983: Lakers go 54-28

In the 1983-84 season, the Los Angeles Lakers went 54-28.

1984: Highest Field-Goal Percentage

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

1984: Defeat by Celtics in NBA Finals

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

1985: Kings Move to Sacramento

In 1985, the Sacramento Kings moved to Sacramento, placing them and the Lakers both in California.

1985: Victory over Celtics in NBA Finals

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

1985: Lakers start 24-3 and win 62 games

In the 1985-86 season, the Los Angeles Lakers started 24-3 and went on to win 62 games.

1985: Celtics Set Record

In the 1985–86 season, the Boston Celtics set the current NBA record of 40-1 in the regular season, besting the Lakers home record of 36-5 in 1971-72.

1985: Lakers on Fox Sports West

Since 1985, the Lakers have been on Fox Sports West.

1986: Lakers acquire Mychal Thompson and A.C. Green enters starting lineup

In the 1986-87 season, the Los Angeles Lakers moved A.C. Green into the starting lineup and acquired Mychal Thompson from the Spurs. Johnson won his first career MVP Award, and Michael Cooper was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year.

1986: Highest win total since the 1986-87 season

Led by league MVP O'Neal, the Lakers finished the 1999-2000 season with 67-15, the highest win total since they won 65 in the 1986-87 season.

1987: Michael Cooper wins Defensive Player of the Year

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

1987: Victory over Celtics in NBA Finals

In the 1987 NBA Finals, the Lakers once again triumphed over the Boston Celtics.

1987: Lakers take their seventh consecutive Pacific Division title

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

1988: Forum Renamed Great Western Forum

In 1988, Jerry Buss started the trend of allowing sponsors to add their name to team's stadiums when he renamed the Forum the Great Western Forum.

1988: First title since 1988

In 2000, the Lakers defeated the Indiana Pacers four games to two to win their first title since 1988.

1988: Lakers Win the 1988 NBA Finals

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

1988: Lakers win Pacific Division crown and are swept in NBA Finals

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

June 28, 1989: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar announces his retirement

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

1989: "Magic Johnson" Song Released

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

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1989: Pistons Win the 1989 NBA Finals

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

1990: Best effort since 1990-91

In 1996, O'Neal led the team to a 56-26 record, their best effort since 1990-91, despite missing 31 games due to a knee injury.

1990: Lakers fail to win the Pacific Division

In the 1990-91 season, the Los Angeles Lakers failed to win the Pacific Division for the first time in 10 years, but still finished with a 58-24 record.

November 7, 1991: Magic Johnson announces he has HIV and will retire immediately

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 the Golden State Warriors had the last of six postseason matchups that occurred between 1967 and 1991.

1991: Lakers defeated by Chicago Bulls in NBA Finals

In 1991, the Los Angeles Lakers reached the NBA Finals but were defeated in five games by the Chicago Bulls, led by Michael Jordan.

1991: First trip to the NBA Finals since 1991

In 2000, the Lakers defeated the Indiana Pacers four games to two to win their first title since 1988, marking their first trip to the Finals since 1991.

1993: Lakers lose 43 games under Randy Pfund

In 1993, the Lakers, coached by 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 Phoenix before ultimately losing in five games. Later in the 1993-94 season, Pfund was fired.

1994: Eddie Jones selected tenth overall

In 1994, Eddie Jones was selected tenth overall by the Lakers.

1994: Missing the Playoffs for the First Time Since 1994

In 2005, The Lakers finished 34–48, missing the playoffs for only the fifth time in franchise history and the first time since 1994.

1995: Chicago Bulls win 72 games

In 1995, the Chicago Bulls won 72 games, surpassing the Lakers' previous record of 69 games in a season, which was set in 1972.

1995: Magic Johnson returns as a player

In the 1995-96 season, Magic Johnson came out of retirement to play again, leading the Lakers to a 29–11 finish. After run-ins with Nick Van Exel, displeasure with Harris's strategies, and a first-round loss to the Rockets, Johnson decided to retire for the final time after the season.

1996: Lakers Acquire Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal

During the 1996 off-season, the Lakers acquired 17-year-old Kobe Bryant from the Charlotte Hornets for Vlade Divac and signed free-agent Shaquille O'Neal. During the season, the team traded Cedric Ceballos to Phoenix for Robert Horry.

1996: Trade for Kobe Bryant and signing of Shaquille O'Neal

In 1996, the Lakers traded with the Charlotte Hornets for the draft rights to Kobe Bryant and signed center Shaquille O'Neal, marking a return to dominance.

1997: Best start in franchise history

In the 1997–98 season, O'Neal and the Lakers had the best start in franchise history, 11–0. O'Neal would miss 20 games on the season due to an abdominal injury.

1998: Eddie Jones and Elden Campbell traded

During the 1998-99 season, All-Star guard Eddie Jones and center Elden Campbell were traded to the Charlotte Hornets. The team also acquired J. R. Reid, B. J. Armstrong, and Glen Rice.

1999: Lakers Hire Phil Jackson

Before the 1999–2000 season, the Los Angeles Lakers hired former Chicago Bulls coach Phil Jackson, who had coached that team to six championships. He was given a lucrative $6 million a year contract and brought along assistant Tex Winter. The Lakers also signed veterans Brian Shaw, John Salley, Ron Harper, and A.C. Green.

1999: Move to Staples Center

In 1999, the Los Angeles Lakers moved to Staples Center, now known as Crypto.com Arena, after playing a preseason game at The Forum.

1999: Spurs Win NBA Championship in 1999

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 the fall of 1999, Crypto.com Arena (formerly known as Staples Center) opened in downtown Los Angeles, seating up to 18,997 for Lakers games.

2000: Move to the Staples Center

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

2000: NBA Record for Best Playoff Record

During the 2000–01 season, the Los Angeles Lakers set the NBA record for best playoff record at 15–1.

2000: NBA Championship

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

2000: Bryant awarded MVP

In 2008, Bryant was awarded the league's MVP award, becoming the first Laker to win the award since O'Neal in 2000.

2000: Last title until 2000

In the 1987-88 season, the Lakers won their fifth title in nine years, but it would also mark their last title until 2000.

December 16, 2001: Chick Hearn's streak ends

On December 16, 2001, Chick Hearn's streak of 3,338 consecutive broadcasts ended.

2001: Lakers Win NBA Championship

In 2001, the Los Angeles Lakers won the NBA Championship. The Spurs and Lakers combined to win five NBA championships from 1999 to 2003.

2001: Lakers win the series against the Kings in game one, 106-99

In 2001-02, the series between the Lakers and the Kings would go on to be known as one of the greatest playoff matchups in NBA history. In game one, Bryant scored 30 points as the Lakers won, 106–99.

2002: Top Ten in Attendance

From 2002, the Los Angeles Lakers 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.

2002: NBA Championship

In 2002, led by Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O'Neal, and coach Phil Jackson, the Lakers won their third consecutive NBA Championship.

2002: Lakers struggle at the start of the season.

In 2002, the Lakers attempted a four-peat the following year, but started the 2002–03 season 11–19.

2002: Lakers Win Controversial Western Conference Finals

In 2002, the Los Angeles Lakers won the Western Conference Finals against the Sacramento Kings in a series marked by controversial calls in game 6.

2003: Lakers signed Karl Malone and Gary Payton

During the 2003-04 season, the Los Angeles Lakers signed Karl Malone and Gary Payton to join O'Neal and Bryant, forming a 'superteam'.

2003: Spurs Win NBA Championship

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

2003: Jackson wrote a book about the team's 2003-04 season

In 2004, the Lakers' coach Jackson wrote a book about the team's 2003–04 season, in which he heavily criticized Bryant.

2004: Rick Fox and Gary Payton Traded 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 Miami Heat

During the 2004 off-season, Shaquille O'Neal was traded to the Miami Heat for Lamar Odom, Brian Grant, Caron Butler, and a first-round draft pick.

2004: Trade of 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.

2004: Spurs and Lakers Rivalry in 2004

In 2004, the rivalry between the Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs was considered the premier rivalry in the NBA; each time the clubs faced each other in the playoffs, the winner advanced to the NBA Finals.

2004: Pistons Win the 2004 NBA Finals

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

February 13, 2005: Karl Malone announces his retirement

After sitting out the first half of the 2004–05 season, Karl Malone announced his retirement on February 13, 2005.

2005: Phil Jackson's second stint as head coach

From 2005, Phil Jackson had his second stint as head coach for the Lakers.

2005: Andrew Bynum selected tenth overall

In 2005, Andrew Bynum was selected tenth overall by the Lakers.

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. The team also traded Caron Butler and Chucky Atkins to Washington for Kwame Brown and Laron Profit.

2005: Paul Sunderland's contract not renewed

In the summer of 2005, Paul Sunderland's contract as the Lakers' play-by-play announcer was not renewed.

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: Spurs Win NBA Championship

In 2007, the San Antonio Spurs won the NBA Championship after the Lakers and Spurs combined to appear in seven consecutive NBA Finals from 1999 to 2005.

2007: Top Ten in Attendance

Through 2007, the Los Angeles Lakers averaged just over 18,900 fans, which placed them in the top ten in the NBA in attendance.

2008: NBA Finals Loss to Celtics

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

2008: Home Games Sold Out

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

2008: Spurs Defeat Lakers in Western Conference Finals

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

2008: Lakers win Western Conference

In the 2008–09 season, the Lakers finished with the best record in the Western Conference.

2008: KLAC radio broadcast rights end

The Lakers' radio broadcast rights ended with KLAC after the 2008–09 season.

October 9, 2009: 50th Anniversary Game at The Forum

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 Achievements by the 2009-10 Season

As of the 2009–10 season, the Los Angeles Lakers held records for most wins (3,027), the highest winning percentage (61.9%), and the most NBA Finals appearances (31).

2009: Lakers radio broadcasts on KSPN and KWKW

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: NBA Championship

In 2009, Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, and coach Phil Jackson won the NBA championship.

2009: Phil Jackson breaks regular-season wins record

In 2009, Phil Jackson broke Pat Riley's regular-season wins record.

2009: Major Sponsors in 2009

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

2009: Lakers add Ron Artest

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

January 13, 2010: Lakers win 3000 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 Haunted by Missed Shot

In June 2010, Frank Selvy mentioned that he was still haunted by a missed potential game-winning 18-foot jump shot in regulation from the 1962 NBA Finals game.

2010: Phil Jackson returns for the 2010-11 season

After much speculation, head coach Phil Jackson returned for the 2010–11 season.

2010: Jerry Buss Elected to Basketball Hall of Fame

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

2010: Phil Jackson breaks playoff wins record

In 2010, Phil Jackson passed Pat Riley's playoff wins and games coached records.

2010: 16th NBA Title

In 2010, the Lakers won their 16th NBA title, marking the latest matchup of the Lakers and Celtics.

2010: Most Popular 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 sports networks

On February 14, 2011, Time Warner Cable and the Lakers announced the formation of two new regional sports networks 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 the head coach of the Lakers, replacing Phil Jackson for the 2011-12 season.

May 25, 2011: Mike Brown hired as head coach

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

2011: Bill Macdonald becomes TV play-by-play announcer

For the 2011–12 season, Bill Macdonald became the new television play-by-play announcer for the Lakers, joining Stu Lantz. John Ireland joined Mychal Thompson to call the games on radio.

2011: Retirement of Phil Jackson

In 2011, coach Phil Jackson retired, leading to the Lakers' longest playoff drought in franchise history.

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 were 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.

July 11, 2012: Steve Nash trade becomes official

On July 11, 2012, the sign-and-trade deal sending Steve Nash to the Lakers became official, marking 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.

November 9, 2012: Mike Brown relieved of coaching duties

On November 9, 2012, Mike Brown was relieved of his duties as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers after a 1-4 start to the season.

November 12, 2012: Mike D'Antoni hired as head coach

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

2012: Start of exclusive telecasts on Time Warner Cable SportsNet

Starting with the 2012–13 season, the Lakers' games and related programming would be exclusively televised on Time Warner Cable SportsNet.

February 18, 2013: Jerry Buss dies from cancer

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

March 30, 2013: Kobe Bryant passes Wilt Chamberlain in scoring

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

April 12, 2013: Kobe Bryant tears Achilles tendon

On April 12, 2013, Kobe Bryant tore his Achilles tendon.

April 16, 2013: Lakers clinch playoff berth

On April 16, 2013, the Lakers clinched a playoff berth in the final game of the season after beating the Houston Rockets.

December 8, 2013: Kobe Bryant returns from injury

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

December 17, 2013: Kobe Bryant suffers broken bone in knee

On December 17, 2013, Kobe Bryant suffered a broken bone in his knee, ending his season.

2013: Mike D'Antoni Resigns

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

2013: Forbes Values Lakers at $1 Billion

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

2013: Jeanie Buss Becomes Controlling Owner

In 2013, Jeanie Buss became the controlling owner of the Los Angeles Lakers following the death of Jerry Buss, running the team on behalf of the entire family.

2013: Spurs Beat Lakers in 2013

In 2013, the San Antonio Spurs beat the Los Angeles Lakers.

March 25, 2014: Lakers score franchise record in third quarter

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

July 2014: Byron Scott hired as head coach

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

July 28, 2014: Byron Scott signs contract to coach Lakers

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

2014: Julius Randle selected seventh overall

In 2014, Julius Randle was selected seventh overall by the Lakers.

2014: Departure of Pau Gasol

In 2014, Pau Gasol departed from 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 after 20 seasons with the team.

2015: Byron Scott fired as head coach

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

2015: D'Angelo Russell selected second overall

In 2015, D'Angelo Russell was selected second overall by the Lakers.

April 24, 2016: Lakers decline option on Byron Scott's contract

On April 24, 2016, the Lakers announced 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 head coach, replacing Byron Scott.

2016: Brandon Ingram selected second overall

In 2016, Brandon Ingram was selected second overall by the Lakers.

2016: Retirement of Kobe Bryant

In 2016, Kobe Bryant retired from the Lakers.

2016: Time Warner Cable SportsNet renamed Spectrum SportsNet

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

2016: Worst Record Posted by Lakers

In 2016, the Los Angeles Lakers posted their worst record, 17–65.

February 2017: Jeanie Buss Fires Jim Buss

In February 2017, Jeanie Buss fired Jim Buss from his role in basketball operations after several disappointing seasons.

February 21, 2017: Lakers fire Mitch Kupchak, Magic Johnson named President

On February 21, 2017, the 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 Lakers hired Rob Pelinka as the general manager, signing him to a five-year deal.

March 2017: Co-Trustees of Family Trusts

As of March 2017, Jerry Buss' children Jeanie, Janie, and Johnny Buss serve as co-trustees managing the family's 66% controlling stake in the Los Angeles Lakers.

2017: Lonzo Ball selected second overall

In 2017, Lonzo Ball was selected second overall by the Lakers.

2017: Golden State Warriors break Lakers Playoff Record

In 2017, the Golden State Warriors broke the Los Angeles Lakers' NBA record of 15-1 set in the 2000-2001 season for best playoff record .

February 2018: Nance Jr. and Clarkson traded to Cavaliers

In February 2018, Larry Nance Jr. and Jordan Clarkson were traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

July 2, 2018: Randle renounced by the Lakers

On July 2, 2018, Julius Randle was renounced by the 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 leaves as head coach

At the end of the 2018–19 season, Luke Walton stopped being head coach of the Lakers.

2018: Signing of LeBron James

In 2018, the Lakers signed superstar LeBron James.

February 7, 2019: Zubac traded to Clippers

On February 7, 2019, Ivica Zubac was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers along with Michael Beasley.

April 9, 2019: Magic Johnson steps down as team president

On April 9, 2019, Magic Johnson stepped down as the Los Angeles Lakers' president of basketball operations.

May 13, 2019: Frank Vogel named head coach

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

2019: JoAnn Buss Dies

In 2019, JoAnn Buss, ex-wife of Jerry Buss, died; a portion of the Los Angeles Lakers shares were reserved for her.

2019: 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 on all-time scoring list

On January 25, 2020, LeBron James passed Kobe Bryant for third place on the NBA's all-time scoring list during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers.

2020: 17th NBA Championship

In 2020, the Lakers—led by LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and coach Frank Vogel—won the team's 17th championship.

2021: Frank Vogel Fired as Head Coach

Following the conclusion of the 2021–22 season, Frank Vogel was fired as head coach of the Lakers.

2021: Jersey Patch Deal with Bibigo

The Los Angeles Lakers have a jersey patch deal with Bibigo that started during the 2021–22 season.

June 6, 2022: Darvin Ham named head coach

On June 6, 2022, Darvin Ham was named as Frank Vogel's successor as head coach of the Lakers.

2022: Golden State Warriors win NBA championship in Boston

In the 1984-85 season, the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Boston Celtics in six games in the NBA Finals. They won the title in the Boston Garden. In 2022, the Golden State Warriors also achieved this feat.

May 3, 2024: Darvin Ham fired as head coach

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

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 Los Angeles Lakers selected Bronny James, the son of LeBron, at 55th overall in the 2024 NBA draft.

October 2024: Lakers Valued at $7.1 Billion

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

October 23, 2024: LeBron and Bronny James make NBA history

On October 23, 2024, the Lakers made NBA history by being the first team to have a father and son, LeBron James and Bronny James, play together, as they won their season opening game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

2024: Lakers Ownership Distribution in 2024

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

2024: Tying the Celtics for Most Titles

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

2024: Clippers Move to Intuit Dome

In 2024, the Los Angeles Clippers moved to the Intuit Dome, making the Lakers the only team to solely occupy the Crypto.com Arena and ending the shared-arena dynamic in the NBA.

2024: Celtics Surpass Lakers in Championship Titles

In the 2024 NBA Finals, the Boston Celtics surpassed the Los Angeles Lakers for the highest number of championship titles, holding 18 titles compared to the Lakers' 17.

2024: Ticket Sales for 2024-25 Season

The Los Angeles Lakers sold a total of 767,626 tickets for the 2024–25 season, ranking 12th in the league.

February 1, 2025: Lakers trade for Luka Dončić

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

February 2025: Trade for Luka Dončić

In February 2025, the Lakers traded Anthony Davis and acquired Luka Dončić.

June 2025: Buss Family Agrees to Sell Majority Control

In June 2025, ESPN reported that the Buss family had agreed to sell majority control of the Los Angeles Lakers to Los Angeles Dodgers majority owner, Mark Walter, at a $10 billion team valuation, with Jeanie Buss continuing to run the team.