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Lakers NBA Draft News: A look at previous picks

By Jamaal Artis

May 17, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Los Angeles Lakers general manager Mitch Cupchak represents his team during the NBA draft lottery at New York Hilton Midtown. The Philadelphia 76ers received the first overall pick in the 2016 draft. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
May 17, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Los Angeles Lakers general manager Mitch Cupchak represents his team during the NBA draft lottery at New York Hilton Midtown. The Philadelphia 76ers received the first overall pick in the 2016 draft. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Michael Cooper

April 13, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers merchandise for court side spectators with forward Kobe Bryant logo before the game against the Utah Jazz at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
April 13, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers merchandise for court side spectators with forward Kobe Bryant logo before the game against the Utah Jazz at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

The 60th pick taken in the third round Michael Cooper proved all the doubter wrong when he made the team in 1978.  Using a wiry frame the six foot five inch Cooper was the Lakers 6th man through out the 80’s providing tenacious perimeter defense and the occasional three point shooting.

In 1987, Cooper was recognized for his defense by being voted the NBA Defensive Player of the Year.

Over his career Copper was an eight time NBA All-Defensive team member.

Along with Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Cooper was a member of all five Lakers championships during the 1980’s.

Next: No. 1

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