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Lakers' 80-Year Jersey History: Stars and Snubs
30 May
Summary
- Lakers history spans 80 years, from Detroit Gems to current era.
- Glen Rice joined Lakers in 1999 for 3-point shooting, won a title.
- Rice's Lakers stats declined post-elbow surgery before his retirement.

The Los Angeles Lakers are celebrating their 80th season, tracing their origins back to the 1946 Detroit Gems. Over this extensive history, 506 players have donned the Lakers' uniform. A significant acquisition was Glen Rice in 1999, brought in to enhance the team's three-point shooting alongside Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant.
Rice was a notable addition, averaging 16.3 points with the Lakers and contributing to their 2000 NBA championship victory. However, his performance saw a decline following elbow surgery, impacting his shooting percentages compared to his career averages. He was traded to the New York Knicks after the championship season and retired in 2004.