Third Team
Derek Fisher – PG
Michael Cooper – SG
Elgin Baylor – SF
A.C. Green – PF
George Mikan – C
When George Mikan and Elgin Baylor can legitimately be designated to the all-time third team, it’s evident why the Lakers are often considered the greatest franchise in professional sports.
At this point, you are probably thinking: how is George Mikan selected for third team honors instead of Wilt Chamberlain.
It’s very easy. Wilt’s best playing days were way behind him when he joined the Lakers in the late 60s. Mikan, who is considered to be the first truly dominant center in league history, played his entire seven-year career with the Lakers, leading the team to the franchise’s first five championships. Mikan ended his career with averages of 23 points, 13 rebounds and nearly three assists.
Wilt did play on arguably the best Lakers team in franchise history, however. Wilt manned the middle for the 1972 team that won a record 33 consecutive games and 69 games overall, the second most in league history (although it was the highest at the time). The 71-72 Lakers would go on to win the franchise’s first title since making the move from Minneapolis.
But all-in-all, Mikan meant more to the Lakers than The Big Dipper ever did. If Wilt had spent more of his prime years with the Lakers, and helped Jerry West win a couple more championships along the way, he would have likely secured a spot on the first or second team.
httpvhd://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W-3NlzswBxs
httpvhd://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIiSCwfxR0c&feature=related
Next Page: Second Team
