Mar 13, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard (12) reacts to a play in the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports
After Dwight Howard’s nationally criticized ejection during the Lakers final postseason game, there has been growing speculation as to whether the 27-year-old will return to LA – or if the organization should even want him there in the first place.
“I think we put a little too much pressure on Dwight and as responsible leaders, we gave him a little too much responsibility,” said Metta World Peace. “Kobe, Pau and myself, we weren’t responsible enough. We should have been louder voices. So, I take a lot of responsibility and I’m sure Kobe and Pau do also. So next year, we definitely will. We have to be the voice in the locker room consistently.”
An odd statement, as the last thing Howard needs is to be coddled. After all, most people forget Howard understands what it means to be a leader and has lead a sub-par supporting cast to the Finals in the past.
That said, it doesn’t change the fact Howard is immature. He will always try to lighten up situations that should not be taken lightly.
The most recent example being Howard’s apology to the LA fanbase following game 4.
Im still upset about tonights game and the way this season ended. Im mad I lost my cool. Im sorry for letting my team and our fans down when
— Dwight Howard (@DwightHoward) April 29, 2013
when they needed me the most. If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year its that I need to be more responsible for my actions and learn to
— Dwight Howard (@DwightHoward) April 29, 2013
to “breathe”! (Maybe I will take up yoga and come back calmer or @charliesheen can help me with my anger management) But despite our tough
— Dwight Howard (@DwightHoward) April 29, 2013
season, it is an honor being a member of a team with this amazing history & the best fans in the league!
— Dwight Howard (@DwightHoward) April 29, 2013
I hope I get the chance to make it up to you!” Thank u la.
— Dwight Howard (@DwightHoward) April 29, 2013
It was well-worded and sincere, but the gravity of the moment certainly could have done without the Charlie Sheen bit. It’s subtle, but it embodies the biggest issue Howard has – he’s more concerned with being liked than winning, he’s the class clown.
Most champions are not known for their comedy. I couldn’t imagine Michael Jordan or Bill Russell cracking jokes online if they were were tossed from a win or stay home playoff game. Then again, I doubt they would be getting ejected in the first place.
Shaquille O’Neal may have been the exception. But it’s a lot easier to get away with a few off-court antics when you’re building dynasties.
In Howard’s case, LA has plenty of entertainers. We need champions.