Lakers React to Elden Campbell's Passing; Legacy Remembered

The Los Angeles Lakers community is in mourning following the passing of former player Elden Campbell at the age of 57. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Campbell's family informed the Detroit Pistons of his death, which occurred on a Monday, although the cause has not been disclosed. Campbell was a notable figure in the NBA, playing 15 seasons, including nine with the Lakers, where he was known for his calm demeanor and athleticism. He was drafted by the Lakers as the 27th overall pick in the first round of the 1990 NBA Draft after a standout college career at Clemson, where he became the school’s all-time leading scorer with 1,880 points, and helped lead the Tigers to the Sweet 16 in the 1989-90 NCAA tournament.

During his time with the Lakers from 1990 to 1999, he averaged 10.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game, becoming a key contributor on teams that included stars like Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant. Notably, Campbell's best statistical season with the Lakers was in 1996-97 when he averaged 14.9 points per game. His contributions to the Lakers were instrumental during a period filled with competitive play, although he did not win a championship during his tenure with the team. He later won an NBA Championship with the Detroit Pistons in 2004, defeating the Lakers in the Finals.

The Lakers organization and former teammates have expressed their condolences and shared memories on social media. Magic Johnson, a Hall of Famer and former teammate, described Campbell as a gentle soul and fondly recalled their time together on the court, stating, "I loved throwing lobs to Elden because he could jump out the gym and had so much talent." Mychal Thompson, another former Laker, shared his heartbreak, emphasizing how Campbell was a nice guy who left too soon. Cedric Ceballos also joined in on the tributes, highlighting the deep sense of loss felt within the Lakers family.

Campbell's legacy is remembered not just for his statistics but also for his impact on teammates and the community. Lakers Nation noted that while he was never a superstar, he was a vital part of the Lakers' success in the 1990s, and his contributions helped shape the team's identity during that era. As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that Elden Campbell will be remembered as a beloved figure in Lakers history, a talented player, and a kind-hearted individual who made a lasting impact both on and off the court.