Apr 14, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard (12) is defended by San Antonio Spurs forward Tim Duncan (21) at the Staples Center. The Lakers defeated the Spurs 91-86. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Hopefully you’re a Dwight Howard fan, because it’s likely you’ll be seeing his in purple and gold for the next five seasons.
Sam Amick of USA Today reported two sources close to Howard stated they fully expect him to return. The information was disclosed under the condition they remain anonymous out of respect for Howard’s decision to wait until next summer for his official announcement.
Of course this guarantees absolutely nothing. Although the fact the Lakers will be able to offer the 27-year-old a five-year, 117.9 million dollar deal should be comforting. As other teams will only be able to offer him a maximum of a four-year, 87.8 million dollar contract.
Should the money not persuade Howard, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him settle in Los Angeles simply to save face after the Orlando debacle.
How would you feel about Howard being the player the Lakers build around for the next half-decade? Let us know in the comments.