Los Angeles Lakers: 3 other legends whose numbers should be retired

No. 21 — Michael Cooper

Another name that got lost among the stars, Michael Cooper played an integral part in five championships during the Lakers’ Showtime era. Playing alongside legends like Johnson and Abdul-Jabbar, however, didn’t allow him much space in the spotlight.

Still, his presence on those teams may very well have been the difference in earning those five rings. While not an overwhelming offensive presence (only 8.9 points per game during his career), Cooper was a superstar defender. Although he could play either of the guard positions as well as small forward, he was always matched up with the opponent’s best shooter.

As a result of his defensive dominance, Cooper earned his way onto eight NBA All-Defensive teams. On top of that, he walked away from the 1987 season with the Defensive Player of the Year award. Larry Bird once stated that Cooper was the best defender he ever faced (via the Los Angeles Times).

That leads me to believe that, had Cooper not been around, the Lakers wouldn’t have won all of those rings. Even with Johnson and Abdul-Jabbar in the lineup, having that lockdown defender may have been the difference for L.A.

His elite defense and role in winning five rings is why Cooper deserves to have his No. 21 jersey retired by the Lakers.