The Best Lakers Coaches Of All Time

A master of the triangle offense and Zen-like approach to coaching, Phil Jackson is a transcendent figure in the world of professional basketball and undeniably one of the best Lakers coaches of all time. Known for his ability to manage the egos of superstar players like Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal, Jackson led the Lakers to five of their 17 championships during his two separate stints as head coach. Furthermore, his holistic approach to coaching, emphasizing teamwork, selflessness, and mindfulness, has left a lasting impact on the sport that is still felt today.

Few coaches in NBA history can boast the same level of success and swagger as Pat Riley, whose Showtime Lakers of the 1980s dazzled fans with their electric style of play and undeniable star power. With a keen eye for talent and unmatched motivational skills, Riley harnessed the strengths of Hall of Famers Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, leading the Lakers to four championships during his tenure. To this day, Riley's legacy looms large over the franchise, as both a testament to his coaching genius and his indelible impact on the sport itself.

The architect of the league's first true dynasty, John Kundla laid the foundation for the Lakers' storied history, guiding the Minneapolis Lakers to five championships in six years during the late 1940s and early 1950s. His ability to maximize the individual talents of George Mikan, the league’s first dominant big man, and mold them into a cohesive unit set a blueprint for coaching excellence that would resonate through the decades. Kundla's impact on the sport and the Lakers' success cannot be overstated, as he helped shape professional basketball into what it is today.

A dual threat as both an accomplished player and brilliant coach, Bill Sharman took the Lakers' reins in 1971 and immediately made his mark on the franchise. Under Sharman, the team notched its first championship in the Los Angeles era, while also setting a then-record 33-game winning streak that still stands as the longest in NBA history. His motion offense and commitment to defense transformed the Lakers into title contenders, and his winning mindset has left an indelible mark on the organization.

Though perhaps best known for his legendary playing career and iconic status as "The Logo," Jerry West's foray into coaching should not be overlooked. His innovative mind and keen basketball IQ translated seamlessly to the sidelines, where he guided the Lakers through a period of transition in the mid-1970s. Despite not capturing a title as a head coach, West's impact on the sport extended beyond his playing days, showcasing the depth and breadth of his contributions to the game of basketball.

One of the founding fathers of professional basketball, George Mikan's towering presence and dominant skillset made him an early icon of the sport. Bridging both the playing and coaching worlds, Mikan led the Minneapolis Lakers to four championships as a player before transitioning to the sidelines in the late 1950s. Though his coaching tenure was brief, Mikan's unmistakable contributions to the game and the Lakers' rich history are felt to this day.