LA Lakers Legend and Hall of Famer Elgin Baylor dies at 86

LA Lakers Legend and Hall of Famer Elgin Baylor dies at 86

Elgin Baylor

Hall of Famer Elgin Baylor who had an illustrious career and followed it by managing the LA Clippers passes away at the age of 86. The Los Angeles Lakers confirmed that Elgin Baylor died of a natural cause and was surrounded by his wife and daughter. 

Considered one of basketball’s greatest players, Baylor was an 11-time All-Star and 10-time All-NBA selection during his 14 seasons with the Lakers from 1958 to 1971. He was the 1958-59 Rookie of the Year as well as the All-Star Game MVP that year. He averaged a double-double for his career, posting 27.4 points and 13.5 rebounds per game. 

LA Lakers and Clippers player Elgin Baylor dies of natural cause 

“Elgin was the love of my life and my best friend,” Elgin Baylor’s wife, Elaine said in the statement as per ESPN. “And like everyone else, I was in awe of his immense courage, dignity and the time he gave to all fans. At this time we ask that I and our family be allowed to mourn his passing in privacy.” 

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“Elgin was THE superstar of his era, his many accolades speak to that,” LA Lakers owner Jeanie Buss said in a statement. “He was one of the few Lakers players whose career spanned from Minneapolis to Los Angeles. But more importantly he was a man of great integrity, even serving his country as a U.S. Army reservist, often playing for the Lakers only during his weekend pass. “ 

She added, “He is one of the all-time Lakers greats with his No. 22 jersey retired in the rafters and his statue standing guard in front of STAPLES Center. He will always be part of the Lakers legacy. On behalf of the entire Lakers family, I’d like to send my thoughts, prayers and condolences to Elaine and the Baylor family.”

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