With the NBA playoffs in full swing, we take a look back at one of the greatest shots in Laker playoff history. The Lakers, led by Jerry West, faced the New York Knicks in the 1970 Finals.
After splitting the first two games in New York, the series shifted to Los Angeles where the Lakers were hoping to take advantage of their home court. The game was a back and forth contest as both teams battled.
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West tied the game with 15 seconds to go, but the Knicks responded as Dave DeBusschere hit a shot with three seconds to left. A visibly upset Wilt Chamberlain inbounded the ball to West, then headed for the locker room, only to miss West’s amazing shot.
West caught the ball and took three dribbles before heaving up a 60-foot prayer. The shot caressed off the back iron and in, tying the game at 102. Had there been a three point line at the time, the shot would have given the Lakers the lead.
Unfortunately, the Lakers would go on to lose in overtime and ultimately lose the series in seven games. Although still a legendary shot, had the Lakers won that game and series, it would have gone down as the best shot in Finals history.
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