Top 10 Los Angeles Lakers Free Agent Signings Since 1980
4: Derek Fisher
Derek Fisher was a member of that Lakers dynasty that won three consecutive titles, but he eventually left the team. Fisher spent time with the Warriors and Jazz, but he did come back to the team in the 2007.
Fisher wanted to be close to his daughter who was battling health issues and the Lakers found it right to bring back their point guard. In his second stint with the Lakers, Fisher was the leader and the voice in the locker-room. The players looked up to their leader and he guided them to two more titles.
Fisher was traded in the 2011-12 season, but he will forever be in the hearts of Lakers fans.
3: Gary Payton
Gary Payton had an amazing career with the Seattle Super Sonics, and no doubt earned a spot in the Hall of Fame. However, he did not win a title in Seattle and wanted to end his tenure in the NBA on top. The Lakers were still title contenders and they wanted to help Payton win that ring.
In the summer of 2003, Payton signed with the Lakers and aimed to win his first ring. Although on paper the Lakers were no doubt the most talented team in the NBA, they could not win their fourth consecutive title.
The Lakers lost to the Detroit Pistons in five games, leaving Payton empty handed again. Payton spent one season with the Lakers and averaged 14 points and five assists.
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About the author
Ramneet Singh
Ramneet is a senior writer for Lakers Nation and has been contributing his thoughts on the Lakers and the NBA since 2010. Follow Ramneet on Twitter @RamneetSingh24.
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