Recently, LeBron James talked about how lucky the Los Angeles Lakers are to have gotten Dwight Howard this offseason.
The Los Angeles Lakers are off to a great start this season, and a lot of that has to do with them winning the offseason.
In the offseason, the Lakers were able to surround LeBron James with another superstar and some great role players. Compared to last season, the Lakers are built much better with guys that can play defense and spread the floor.
One of the notable offseason signings was DeMarcus Cousins. Unfortunately, Cousins tore his ACL working out over the summer. This left the Lakers in scramble mode a bit, as the only true center on the roster was JaVale McGee.
With limited options left in free agency, the Lakers ended up taking a chance on Dwight Howard. This move was met with a lot of criticism, but it has paid off greatly for the Lakers.
Recently, LeBron James spoke on Spectrum Sports about the Lakers being lucky to have Howard. Here’s what he had to say with text via Silver Screen and Roll.
"“He’s thriving. He’s thriving. He’s gonna have more years in his career and he’s gonna add an ingredient to our team’s success because of the role that he’s accepting. He’s just making the most of it every single night. Defending at a high level, rebounding, blocking shots, catching lobs and with zero ego.“When his number is called he goes out there, and when he’s subbed out he cheers on his teammates every single night. We were lucky to be able to snatch him up late in the summer like that, and we’re happy to have him.”"
The Lakers would certainly not be where they are in this point of the season if not for Howard. Dwight has been nothing but a productive player and good teammate by all accounts. Even though he is arguably outplaying McGee this season, he has embraced his role off the bench for the Lakers.
In 19.9 minutes per game, Howard is averaging 6.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game. Howard has certainly been a big factor on both ends for the Lakers, as when he is on the court, he is making his presence felt.
Getting Howard was definitely a risk for the Lakers, but it has been a risk that has paid off. Even though his first stint in Los Angeles wasn’t a good one, his second might result in the Lakers accomplishing some great things.