Top 10 Los Angeles Lakers Free Agent Signings Since 1980

The NBA’s most hectic and busy day is only days away, as 2012 free-agency is ready to get underway. Starting July 1, free agents will get the chance to remain with their current teams or decide to move on and join another franchise. This is also the time for front offices to speak with candidates and try to lure in new players.

The Los Angeles Lakers have done a great job acquiring players through the draft and trades, but they have had some amazing free-agency signings in years prior. The Lakers have the resources to lure in top names and they have made great moves in their history.

Here is our version of the Top 10 Los Angeles Lakers free agent signings since 1980.

10: Steve Blake

Steve Blake signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in the summer of 2010  and he was hoping to help the team win its third consecutive title. Blake was known for his three-point shooting and he was expected to improve the team from behind the arc. In fact, Blake was a major player in the Lakers’ season opener and he hit a big shot in the final minute.

Although Blake has not been able to win a championship with the Lakers, he has been a nice addition. Blake played a nice role in the 2012 post-season and he made a plethora of big shots.

9: Magic Johnson

Earvin “Magic” Johnson’s prime with the Lakers was during the mid-1980s, but he made a return to the team in 1996. Johnson signed with the Lakers during January of 1996 and played 32 games for the team. Johnson brought five titles to the Lakers and although he was no longer the player he once was, the franchise made the right choice by bringing him back.

Johnson needed basketball in his life and the Lakers gave him another chance to do that. He did not produce much for the team, but bringing one of the greatest Lakers back to do the team was a nice gesture by management.

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