2. Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant
This dynamic duo were truly a force to be reckoned with. From 2000-04, this tandem literally destroyed their competition en route to three consecutive championships during that span. No one could guard Shaq on the block. He was too big, too strong and just too powerful but was agile and skilled for a man his size.
Shaq signed with the Lakers in 1996, the same year they traded for Kobe Bryant on draft night. They played eight seasons together and were largely responsible for resurrecting the Lakers dynasty and bringing the franchise back to prominence after years of disappointing seasons. As an example of just how dominant this pair of great players were, Shaq won three consecutive Finals MVP’s while averaging 29.5 points and 14.5 rebounds in the playoffs from 2000-02.
The Lakers compiled a 15-1 record on their way to their second of three straight titles as both players combined to average 59.8 points, 22.7 rebounds, and 9.3 assists per contest. Once Kobe developed and adjusted to the NBA, the sky was the limit for the duo. During that period of time, Shaq established himself as one of the most dominant big men in NBA history while Kobe became a rising superstar in his own right.
Their run of dominance ended prematurely due to differences amongst one another and many wonder just how many more titles they could have won if they would have remained together for just a few more seasons. Shaq was 30 years old at the time and still had a lot left in the tank.
Kobe was just 23 and hadn’t even reached his ceiling. They were spectacular running Phil Jackson’s triangle offense which fit their skills and abilities perfectly as opponents had no answers to stop them.
Yes, their personalities and egos was the cause of their run coming to an abrupt halt; two alpha males who both wanted to do things their way. At the end of the day, they were still able to accomplish many feats and will forever be mentioned among the greatest in Lakers’ history.