LA's fan favourite point guard — an explosive scorer and leader for the Showtime-era Lakers successor.
Nickolas Maxwell Van Exel was born in Kenosha, Wisconsin in 1971. Los Angeles Lakers selected him 37th overall in the 1993 NBA Draft from the University of Cincinnati — one of the best second-round picks in that era. His 13-season career produced 14.4 points and 6.0 assists per game. He was a fan favourite at the Lakers throughout the mid-1990s for his fearless shooting — he would launch three-pointers from 28 or 30 feet without hesitation and frequently made them — and his emotional intensity. He was selected to one All-Star game in 1998. He formed an effective backcourt with Eddie Jones at the Lakers. He won Olympic gold with the USA at the Sydney 2000 Games. His best statistical season came with Denver — 16.9 points and 8.9 assists in 2001-02. His willingness to take the big shot regardless of circumstances made him a fan favourite everywhere he played. He was notably undrafted for the Hall of Fame despite statistics that compare favourably with some inductees, which generated discussion about how overlooked second-round picks are treated historically.
Dynamic point guard known for clutch shooting and leadership
How They Played
Quick point guard with excellent court vision and three-point range
Lasting Impact
Skilled floor general who helped Lakers rebuild in mid-90s
All-Star 1x
Career Honours
- All-Star 1x
- Olympic Gold Medal (2000)