Recent Lakers rumors are that Los Angeles is seriously interested in bringing back Dwight Howard.
After the injury to DeMarcus Cousins, there have been plenty of Lakers rumors about what will be next for the team.
Since they have lost a potential key player in their rotation, the Lakers now must find someone to fill the void. As of now, the Lakers only have JaVale McGee as a viable center on the roster.
While Anthony Davis might have the size and capabilities to play center, he has made it clear that he doesn’t want to play at the five. Also, the Lakers don’t appear to be very interested in having him play there either.
With a void at the position, the Lakers are going to likely have to bring in a free agent. Since it is August, the options are rather limited. However, there are a few former big names that the Lakers can consider.
According to Rohan Nadkarni, the Lakers are very interested in a reunion with Dwight Howard.
A name I’m hearing the Lakers are seriously interested in after the Boogie Cousins injury: Dwight Howard.
— Rohan Nadkarni (@RohanNadkarni) August 17, 2019
The Grizzlies haven’t bought him out yet, but he’s not expected to play in Memphis this season. Javale McGee is the only other center on LA’s roster.
Howard played one season with the Lakers in 2012-13 season, when the Lakers were supposed to have a superteam. However, things did not go as planned, and Howard ended up playing just one season with the Lakers. That year, Howard was an All-Star and averaged 17.2 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game.
After being considered one of the best centers in the league not too long ago, Howard has bounced around the last few seasons. Last season, he played just nine games with the Washington Wizards.
Howard is certainly not the same player that he was with the Lakers the first time around, but he would be a viable option. With the ability to play defense and rebound, Howard would be a fine backup for McGee.
Since Howard is still under contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, he would need to be bought out in order for the Lakers to sign him. However, that doesn’t appear to be an issue according to the report.
If Howard does become available, he would be a good option for the Lakers. Even though his first stint with the Lakers was far from ideal, he could certainly help the team this season.