LeBron James won Finals MVP four times: back-to-back with Miami in 2012 and 2013, the 2016 1-3 comeback over Golden State for Cleveland's first title, and the 2020 bubble championship with the Lakers. Each FMVP is a real, written legend.
From a Madrid academy boy to the Lakers’ core, Dončić completed his prequel in a decade. The title and FMVP are the last footnote.
James Worthy played at North Carolina alongside Jordan, won the 1982 NCAA title, then was drafted first overall by the Lakers, launching the Showtime era.
Kareem and Magic Johnson's inside-out combo anchored 1980s Lakers Showtime—one big, one small, complementary to five titles.
In 2000-01 the Lakers repeated, starting a three-peat. Shaq won a second FMVP; Kobe grew into an All-Star as OK peaked before its apex.
James Worthy was known for rising to big moments, earning the nickname "Big Game James." He was the Lakers' fast-break finisher and one of the most reliable playoff scorers.
In 1971-72 the Lakers ripped off a 33-game win streak and won it all; a 34-year-old West finally lifted his only championship.
The OK combo's three-peat in 2000-2002 was the Lakers dynasty cornerstone, yet split over shots, status, and personality. Kobe and Shaq's story is a classic sample of cooperation and ego.
The 2010 title was revenge on Boston—Kobe closed the 2008 loop without a word, only defense.
In 1999-00 the Lakers beat Indiana 4-2. Shaquille O’Neal averaged 38 points and 16.7 boards to win his first title and Finals MVP.
Acquired in 2008, Pau Gasol became Kobe Bryant’s most compatible big-man partner. The skilled Spaniard helped the Lakers reach two Finals and win two titles.
In 1986-87 the Lakers beat the Celtics 4-2. Magic Johnson hit a "baby hook" near-buzzer in Game 4 and won his first Finals MVP.