Lakers Rumors: Dwight Howard to compete with JaVale McGee for starting spot

(Photo by Cassy Athena/Getty Images)
(Photo by Cassy Athena/Getty Images)

Recent Lakers rumors are that Dwight Howard might be competing for the starting center spot with JaVale McGee.

As the dust settles from Dwight Howard joining the Los Angeles Lakers, recent Lakers rumors are about him potentially competing for the starting spot at center.

Even prior to the injury to DeMarcus Cousins, it appeared like JaVale McGee was set to be the starter for the Lakers at center. After playing well as the starting center last season, it made sense for McGee to once again be the starter.

McGee was a good fit in the starting five with LeBron James last season, as the two had some good chemistry on the pick-and-roll. However, with the addition of Dwight Howard, McGee might have some competition at center.

According to Shams Charania, Howard will be competing for the starter spot with Howard. You can read all of Charania’s report with a paid subscription to The Athletic here.

The report of Howard being competition for McGee is certainly interesting to monitor. Unlike Cousins, McGee and Howard do have some more similarities in their style of play. Cousins is a far superior offensive player than both of them, and it made sense for him to come off the bench to provide some quality scoring depth.

A lot of reports about Howard’s workouts are very positive. He apparently performed very well and looked to be in great shape.

If Howard is in great shape and motivated, the Lakers might have found a player that can help them achieve their goals this season.

Like some other positions, the Lakers might now have some serious competition for minutes at center. Competition always brings out the best in players, as McGee and Howard are both certainly capable of playing a significant role for the Lakers.

As we get ready for the start of next season, we will have to see who ends up being the starting center for the Lakers. Even though Howard might challenge McGee, it is still likely his job to lose. However, it is good to see that Howard is in a position to challenge him.

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