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Jerry West Suffered 64 Injuries From 1964 To 1974 While Playing For The Lakers
Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports

Jerry West had an illustrious career with the Los Angeles Lakers. However, recent revelations from a fan on Reddit shed light on the toll his career took on his body. 

According to the fan's analysis of West's medical records, obtained from his time playing for the Lakers between 1964 and 1974, it was revealed that West suffered a staggering total of 64 injuries during that period.

The breakdown of injuries over the span of a decade reveals a pattern of resilience amidst adversity. West's commitment to the game is evident despite facing numerous setbacks due to injuries. 

From the 1961-62 season to the 1973-74 season, West battled through various injuries, displaying his determination and perseverance on the court.

During the 1973-74 season, West's injury woes reached a peak as he missed a substantial 51 games, marking one of the most challenging periods in his career in terms of health. This season stands out as particularly tumultuous, highlighting the toll exacted on West's body as he navigated through a series of injuries.

The 1967-68 season also proved to be a challenging period for West, with the star guard sidelined for 31 games due to various ailments. This prolonged absence underscores the significant impact injuries had on West's availability and performance on the court during that particular season.

Throughout his tenure with the Lakers, West faced a consistent battle against injuries, with the number of games missed fluctuating from season to season. From the 1962-63 season, where he missed 25 games, to the 1968-69 season, where he was absent for 21 games, West's injury history paints a picture of the physical toll endured by professional athletes in pursuit of excellence.

Despite the setbacks, West's impact on the game of basketball cannot be overstated. As one of the greatest players of his era, he was known for his scoring ability, playmaking skills, and tenacious defense. His contributions to the Lakers' success during his tenure with the team are immeasurable, with numerous accolades and achievements to his name.

West's resilience in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration to athletes and fans alike. His ability to overcome injuries and continue performing at a high level exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and determination that defines champions.

While the revelation of West's extensive injury history may come as a surprise to some, it underscores the physical toll that professional athletes often endure in pursuit of greatness. Despite the challenges he faced, West's legacy as one of the all-time basketball greats remains intact, cementing his place in NBA history as an icon of the sport.

How Much Would Jerry West Average In Today's NBA? 

Jerry West, affectionately known as "The Logo," carved out a legendary career with the Los Angeles Lakers, leaving an enduring legacy in the NBA. Throughout his tenure, West exhibited exceptional scoring prowess, boasting a career average of 27.0 points per game.

His remarkable playmaking abilities also shone through, as evidenced by his 6.7 assists per game, complemented by his solid rebounding contributions, averaging 5.8 rebounds per game. His impact on the game extended beyond mere statistics, embodying the competitive spirit and resilience that defined his era.

One of the most remarkable aspects of West's career was his consistency in scoring at a high level. He showcased his scoring prowess in the 1969-70 season, where he achieved his career-best scoring average of 31.2 points per game while maintaining an impressive shooting efficiency of 49.7% from the field. This stellar performance was emblematic of his ability to dominate on the offensive end.

Furthermore, West's offensive excellence was not confined to a single season. Throughout his career, he displayed remarkable scoring consistency, averaging over 30 points per game in four seasons. This sustained level of high-scoring output underscored his status as one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history. 

Additionally, West's scoring proficiency extended beyond the 30-point threshold, as he averaged over 25 points per game in seven seasons, further solidifying his reputation as an offensive juggernaut.

In today's NBA, where perimeter shooting and playmaking are highly valued, West's skill set would be highly coveted. He possessed a deadly mid-range game and the ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc, making him a versatile scorer. Moreover, his exceptional court vision and passing ability would make him a formidable playmaker, capable of orchestrating an offense and setting up his teammates for easy baskets.

While today's point guards may possess a height advantage over West, standing at 6'2", his tenacity, basketball IQ, and competitive spirit would more than compensate for any perceived physical limitations. His work ethic and relentless drive to succeed would enable him to excel in today's highly competitive NBA landscape.

In terms of statistical projections, it's not far-fetched to envision West averaging between 31-33 points per game in today's NBA, given his scoring ability and offensive versatility. Additionally, he would likely contribute around 7-8 assists per game, utilizing his playmaking skills to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. With his rebounding prowess, he could also be expected to grab around 5-6 rebounds per game, showcasing his all-around impact on the court.

Overall, Jerry West's transcendent talent and unparalleled skill set would undoubtedly make him a superstar in today's NBA. His ability to adapt to the modern game while maintaining his signature style of play would solidify his status as one of the greatest players of all time, regardless of era.

This article first appeared on Fadeaway World and was syndicated with permission.

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