Lakers jersey history No. 7 Lamar Odom - LeBron Wire

Published: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at 4:10 am

Lakers Jersey History: A Look Back at Lamar Odom

The Los Angeles Lakers, preparing for their 80th season, have seen 506 players don their jerseys, a journey that began in 1946 as the Detroit Gems. LeBron Wire is taking a look at each player who has worn their jersey.

One notable player is Lamar Odom, who joined the Lakers in a 2004 trade that sent Shaquille O'Neal to the Miami Heat. Odom, acquired along with Caron Butler and Brian Grant, was seen as a key piece due to his unique skillset. Standing at 6-foot-10, he could rebound, handle the ball, pass, score, and defend.

Initially, Odom was cast as Kobe Bryant's sidekick. However, the arrival of Pau Gasol in 2008 allowed Odom to play more freely, contributing significantly to the team's success. The Lakers reached the NBA Finals three consecutive times, winning back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010. Odom's contributions were recognized when he was named Sixth Man of the Year for the 2010-11 season.

Odom's tenure with the Lakers ended in a series of events. He was included in a trade for Chris Paul in December 2011, which ultimately fell through. Shortly after, he was traded to the Dallas Mavericks. His final season in the NBA was with the Los Angeles Clippers in the 2012-13 season.

Throughout his career, Odom averaged 13.3 points, 8.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.9 blocks. During his time with the Lakers, he averaged 13.7 points and 9.5 rebounds per game.

BNN's Perspective:

Lamar Odom's career with the Lakers highlights the importance of team dynamics and the impact of strategic roster moves. While his initial role was somewhat limited, the arrival of Pau Gasol unlocked his full potential, leading to championship success. His story serves as a reminder that player fit and the ability to adapt are crucial for achieving long-term goals in professional sports.

Keywords: Lakers, Lamar Odom, NBA, Shaquille O'Neal, Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, Sixth Man of the Year, Championships, Trade, Los Angeles Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, Basketball

Full Story