What year did Shaquille O’Neal join the Los Angeles Lakers? The answer to this question is 1996. That year marked the beginning of a legendary partnership between one of the greatest centers in NBA history and one of the most iconic franchises in the league.
Shaq, known for his immense physical presence and dominant play on the court, was drafted by the Orlando Magic in 1992 as the first overall pick. His time with the Magic was marked by immense success, including an NBA championship in 1995. However, the Magic decided to trade Shaq to the Lakers in a blockbuster deal that sent Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway and a handful of other players to Orlando.
The Lakers had been searching for a dominant center to pair with Kobe Bryant, who had been drafted by the team in 1996. Shaq’s arrival was a game-changer for the Lakers, as he quickly became the centerpiece of their team. The duo of Shaq and Kobe would go on to win three NBA championships together from 2000 to 2002, becoming one of the most formidable teams in the league’s history.
Shaq’s time with the Lakers was characterized by his incredible athleticism, shot-blocking ability, and scoring prowess. He was a seven-time NBA All-Star and a 15-time All-NBA selection, and his impact on the game was undeniable. His presence in the paint was so dominant that he earned the nickname “The Big Diesel.”
The 1996-1997 season was Shaq’s first with the Lakers, and it was a season of transition for the team. Shaq quickly adapted to his new surroundings and became a key player for the Lakers. The team finished the season with a 56-26 record, good for the second seed in the Western Conference. Shaq averaged 29.0 points, 13.6 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game, showcasing his all-around game.
Shaq’s arrival in Los Angeles not only brought immediate success to the Lakers but also helped to elevate the profile of the NBA. His charismatic personality and on-court prowess made him a global icon, and his partnership with Kobe Bryant helped to define the 2000s as the “Golden Age of the Lakers.”
In conclusion, Shaquille O’Neal joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996, and his impact on the team and the NBA was profound. His time with the Lakers was marked by success, both on and off the court, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest players to ever wear the purple and gold.
