Los Angeles Lakers: Greatest players in franchise history to never win a ring

2. Karl Malone

Much like Nash, Karl Malone didn’t spend much of his illustrious career with the Lakers. He played only one year in the City of Angels — his other 18 NBA seasons were spent with the Utah Jazz.

You could even argue he deserves a spot on this list less because he signed with the Lakers as a last-ditch effort to add that elusive ring. That’s compared to Nash, who was acquired via trade. No matter what side of the argument you’re on, Malone suited up for Los Angeles at some point. That’s why he finds his name on this list.

Still don’t understand why? Well if you really need me to answer that, you need a serious refresher on the history of the NBA. For those of you unaware of Malone’s feats, let me take you to school for a second.

Nicknamed the Mailman, Malone was a superstar during his day. Here’s a list of his accomplishments, which would put some of today’s stars to shame: two MVP awards, 14 All-Star selections, 11 All-NBA First Team selections, and more milestones than most players could ever dream of.

And yet, he could never quite make it to the top of the NBA mountain. Malone did come close a few times, though. Twice with the Jazz and once with the Lakers, he found himself playing in the NBA Finals. All three times, though, he found himself on the outside looking in at the end.

It’s disappointing that he never earned that ring. Still, he’ll go down as one of the all-time greats.