The 1999-2000 off-season was a sea change for the Lakers, defined by the arrival of Phil Jackson and the move from the beloved Forum into brand new STAPLES Center. It also started with a setback of a Kobe Bryant hand injury.
Shaquille O'Neal's renewed focus and dedication takes his game to new heights, resulting with his first MVP award. The team also barrels its way towards one of the best regular seasons in franchise history.
The playoff run includes a first-round series win over the Kings. A hard fought Western Conference Finals between the Lakers and Blazers comes down to an incredible 4th quarter in Game 7, with the Lakers down 15 and on the brink of elimination.
After completing one of the greatest fourth quarter comebacks in NBA history, the Lakers prevail in the NBA Finals over the Indiana Pacers in six games, with a monumental celebration outside STAPLES Center.
What if the Lakers lost to the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2000 Western Conference Finals?