As the Los Angeles Lakers celebrate their storied history, the spotlight shines on the 506 players who have donned their iconic jerseys since their inception in 1946. From their early days as the Detroit Gems to their transformation into the Lakers we know today, this franchise has seen a spectrum of talent-from the forgettable to the legendary.
One player who carved out a unique niche in Lakers lore is John Q. Trapp.
Drafted 15th overall by the San Diego Rockets in 1968, Trapp's journey in the NBA took him to Los Angeles after three seasons. While his time on the court with the Lakers was limited, he made a significant impact by contributing to their championship run in his first season.
Trapp's stint with the Lakers was short-lived, as he was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers the following season. The 76ers were struggling through a tough 9-73 season, and after a few incidents, Trapp was waived in January 1973.
Standing at 6-foot-7, Trapp found a new opportunity with the Denver Rockets in the American Basketball Association, rounding out the 1972-73 season. This marked the end of his professional basketball career, where he posted career averages of 7.2 points and 4.4 rebounds over 17.3 minutes per game across both leagues. During his time with the Lakers, he averaged 5.4 points and 3.1 rebounds in just over 12 minutes per game.
Trapp's journey through the NBA and ABA might not have been filled with accolades, but his contribution to a championship team ensures his place in the rich tapestry of Lakers history.