NBA History: The best era for each of the 30 franchises

SAN ANTONIO - JANUARY 14: Tim Duncan #21 of the San Antonio Spurs looks to drive around Dirk Nowitzki #41 of the Dallas Mavericks at the SBC Center on January 14, 2005 in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2005 NBAE (Photo by Chris Birck/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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Los Angeles Lakers: 1979-91

Magic Johnson wasn’t just a critically acclaimed prospect coming out of Michigan State in 1979. His 6’8” stature and cerebral passing ability made him a once in a generation talent, the type that could instantly change the fortune of whichever team he landed on.

That team just so happened to be a Los Angeles Lakers franchise already loaded with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Paired alongside Magic, one of the most talented duos in NBA history began a fruitful relationship that instantly reignited a championship spark for one of the league’s most winningest organizations.

While Kareem took home the MVP of the 1979-80 season, Magic one-upped him by claiming the same award in the Finals later that year. The two were unstoppable at the two premier positions, flanked by notable names such as Byron Scott and James Worthy to create the high-octane Showtime offense.

Across 12 seasons from when Johnson was drafted until 1991, the Lakers made nine NBA Finals including a string of four straight. They’d take home five championships with back-to-back titles in 1987 and 1988 as well.

Kareem is arguably the greatest center of all time, but he couldn’t get LA past the second round in his first four years with the team. It wasn’t until Magic came along that the Lakers etched another glorious chapter in their rich history, led by the floor general every bit the legend many assumed he was destined to become.

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