Campbell stood at an impressive 6-foot-11, showcasing a soft shooting touch and endearing personality that made him a fan favorite. He made his mark at Clemson before being drafted 27th overall by the Lakers in the 1990 NBA Draft. His near nine-season tenure in Los Angeles saw him emerge as a dependable frontcourt player, leading to a trade to Charlotte in 1999.
His career didn’t end there; Campbell also played for the Hornets in both Charlotte and New Orleans. He went on to have stints with the Seattle SuperSonics, New Jersey Nets, and Detroit Pistons over a total of 15 seasons. Notably, he clinched a championship ring with the Pistons in 2004, appearing in 14 playoff games during that unforgettable run.
Over the course of 1,044 regular-season games, Campbell revealed a solid all-around game. He averaged 10.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks, shooting 46 percent from the field. His impact continued into the playoffs, with another 106 appearances, and he retired with a total of 1,602 blocks, placing him 37th in NBA history.
Broderick Turner also highlighted that Campbell is fondly remembered for both his calming demeanor and his performance. Former Lakers teammate Byron Scott reflected on Campbell’s character, noting the nickname “Easy E” perfectly suited him.
“I just remember his demeanor,” Scott shared with the Times. “He was just so cool, nothing sped him up. He took his time. He was such a good dude. I loved Easy, man.”
Elden Campbell leaves behind not just an impressive resume in the NBA but also a legacy as one of the league’s most laid-back players during his time.
