In 2009 the Lakers beat Orlando 4-1; Kobe’s first title as the undisputed leader ended the “Shaq’s shadow” tag.
: The 1997 title was the hinge of Jordan's second three-peat, confirming a returned legend as the era's undisputed head.
In 2000 the Lakers beat Indiana 4-2; Shaq’s 38-17 line and MVP sweep launched the Lakers three-peat.
In 2002 the Lakers swept New Jersey 4-0; Shaq’s third straight Finals MVP sealed the three-peat.
: The 1998 title closed Jordan's career with a second three-peat, fixing him as the standard by which greatness is measured.
: The 1993 three-peat was the hinge of Jordan's career, converting a scoring champion into the acknowledged head of a dynasty.
: Jordan averaged a Finals-record 41 points to beat the Suns 4-2, completing a three-peat and claiming his third straight Finals MVP.
The 2002 title was Shaq’s hinge—from repeat champion to the anchor of a three-peat dynasty.
In the 1990s Jordan led Chicago to two three-peats (1991-93, 1996-98), six Finals, six titles, with Pippen and Jackson creating the decade’s brightest team.