The BEST episodes of Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty season 2

Every episode of Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty season 2, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty season 2!

A fast-break series chronicling the professional and personal lives of the 1980s Los Angeles Lakers, one of sports’ most revered and dominant dynasties — a team that defined an era, both on and off the court.

Last Updated: 9/9/2024Network: HBOStatus: Ended
The Hamburger Hamlet
star
7.96
210 votes

#1 - The Hamburger Hamlet

Season 2 - Episode 5 - Aired 9/3/2023

After a final clash between Earvin and Coach Westhead, Buss tasks Jerry West with picking up the pieces. As Honey attempts a heart-to-heart with Jeanie, Buss faces pushback from the press and his Captain. Later, Pat faces his demons and takes control of his team.

Directors: Tanya Hamilton
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
'beat L.A.'
star
7.84
202 votes

#2 - 'beat L.A.'

Season 2 - Episode 6 - Aired 9/10/2023

Despite taking home another ring, the Lakers face a series of humiliating defeats. While attempting to regroup, Buss fields accusations from Honey, Norm receives devastating news, and Earvin does his best to win Cookie over for good. Then, when a life-changing event alters Kareem’s perspective, a newly united team vies for a shot at taking on the Celtics – and Larry Bird.

Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
The New World
star
7.75
200 votes

#3 - The New World

Season 2 - Episode 4 - Aired 8/27/2023

After Earvin’s record-setting contract reaches the press, resentments flair in the locker room – and extend to the court. As the Lakers fight for their standing in the league, Buss looks to take his relationship with Honey to the next level, while Pat questions his role, and Coach Westhead meets with an old friend.

Directors: Tanya Hamilton
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
What Is and What Should Never Be
star
7.70
206 votes

#4 - What Is and What Should Never Be

Season 2 - Episode 7 - Aired 9/17/2023

As the 1984 NBA Finals begin, tensions between the Lakers and Celtics reach new heights. While Buss fends off a potentially life-altering lawsuit, Claire faces the possibility of yet another bankruptcy, and Jeanie questions her place in professional sports. Later, Earvin and Larry battle to the bitter end of their first Finals face-off.

Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
The Second Coming
star
7.67
203 votes

#5 - The Second Coming

Season 2 - Episode 3 - Aired 8/20/2023

In the 1970s, college drop-out Larry Bird fends off offers from Indiana State’s Bill Hodges – and, later, Celtics’ head coach Red Auerbach. As the ’81-’82 season begins, Earvin pushes Buss for a long-term commitment, while Coach Westhead risks it all on a key move.

Directors: Todd Banhazl
Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
The Magic Is Back
star
7.65
198 votes

#6 - The Magic Is Back

Season 2 - Episode 2 - Aired 8/13/2023

When Earvin’s return threatens the Lakers’ new "system," Pat Riley and Jerry West push for a risky trade. While Coach Westhead fights for his team, Jeanie clashes with her brothers, and a melancholy Buss attempts to court a figure from his past.

Watch Now:AmazonApple TV
One Ring Don't Make a Dynasty
star
7.59
226 votes

#7 - One Ring Don't Make a Dynasty

Season 2 - Episode 1 - Aired 8/6/2023

1980. As the Lakers’ post-victory season begins, a laser-focused Jerry Buss shores up his all-star roster – and his relationship with his children. Later, a catastrophic injury threatens the team’s chance at defending their title.

Watch Now:AmazonApple TV