How Nick Van Exel Bridged the Gap Between the Showtime Lakers and the Shaq-Kobe Era

Nick Van Exel is one of the most electrifying players ever to wear a Los Angeles Lakers jersey. His journey to becoming a fan-favorite started in 1993, when the Lakers drafted him as the 37th overall pick from the University of Cincinnati.

At 6’1″, the lefty point guard was not the tallest player on the court. But his game was bigger than life. From flashy passes to buzzer-beaters, Van Exel quickly made his mark as the floor general of the Lakers during a transitional era.

Van Exel’s fearless style and clutch performances earned him the nickname “Nick the Quick.” He was the spark that kept the team exciting during the post-Magic Johnson years. Fans loved him for his confidence, his swagger, and his ability to light up the court when the team needed him most.

The Early Years of Nick Van Exel

Nick Van Exel’s path to the NBA was not conventional. Born in Kenosha, Wisconsin, he was not widely recruited coming out of high school. But his undeniable talent led him to the University of Cincinnati, where he became a standout player. Van Exel’s leadership helped the Bearcats reach the Final Four in 1992, solidifying his status as a player to watch.

Give Me Sports / The Showtime Lakers selected Van Exel in the second round of the 1993 NBA Draft.

Few imagined that this scrappy, undersized guard would become a franchise cornerstone. But Van Exel wasted no time proving the doubters wrong, stepping into a starting role and dazzling fans with his court vision, three-point shooting, and trademark floater.

Nick ‘The Quick’ Was the Showtime Successor

Baron Davis, a Los Angeles native and former NBA All-Star, once said Nick Van Exel was his favorite Laker growing up. And is easy to see why. After Magic Johnson’s retirement, the Lakers needed a new leader, and Van Exel rose to the challenge.

Paired with Eddie Jones in the backcourt, he brought energy, style, and a fearless attitude that kept fans engaged during the mid-90s.

However, Nick Van Exel was not just a flashy player. He had a knack for delivering in high-pressure moments. Whether hitting a game-winning shot or setting up a teammate with a perfect pass, “Nick the Quick” thrived in crunch time. He helped bridge the gap between the Showtime Lakers of the 1980s and the Shaq-Kobe dynasty that would dominate the early 2000s.

The 1998 All-Star Season and “1-2-3 Cancun”

Van Exel’s peak with the Lakers came in 1998 when he was named to the NBA All-Star team alongside teammates Shaquille O’Neal, Kobe Bryant, and Eddie Jones. It was a testament to his impact on the court, as he remained the team’s engine despite playing alongside some of the league’s biggest stars.

Sports / Van Exel became infamous for his “1-2-3 Cancun” joke during a team huddle.

The comment, made during a playoff series, was interpreted as a sign that Van Exel had mentally checked out. While meant as a lighthearted remark, it created friction within the team and played a role in his eventual departure from the Lakers.

Beyond the Lakers

After leaving the Lakers, Nick Van Exel continued to make waves in the NBA. He played for several teams, including the Denver Nuggets, Dallas Mavericks, and San Antonio Spurs. Wherever he went, his playmaking skills and scoring ability followed. In Denver, he became the veteran leader of a young team, averaging career-high numbers and earning respect as one of the league’s top point guards.

Van Exel’s career spanned 13 seasons, during which he became known not only for his highlights but also for his basketball IQ and leadership. His contributions to the game extended far beyond his time in Los Angeles, proving that “Nick the Quick” was more than just a one-team wonder.