How could the Los Angeles Lakers not be at the top of the NBA food chain over the past 16 seasons? The years of Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O'Neal and Phil Jackson far outweigh the terrible years of late. That's why they have a composite ranking of 41 -- a number that would be even better if not for the Lakers' recent defensive struggles.

They were solid defensively during their time in the spotlight, but they've faltered with poor free agent pickups and young talent, leaving them 18th in defensive rating.

As you can imagine, even the last few years couldn't overcome the greatness that has been the Lakers offense, which ranks eight in effective field goal percentage and fifth in offensive rating, with an average nERD of 55.17 -- fourth among all teams.