Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee had combined to change the small-ball era.
Most wondered at the beginning of the season if Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee would coexist. McGee had resurrected his career much like Howard last year as a starter which brought doubts if he would be willing to share time with Dwight.
Look, Dwight was not the Dwight we know and love today, so concerns were obvious. Nobody thought this duo would bring back the “Twin Tower” that defensively could be as powerful as the Hakeem Olajuwon and Ralph Sampson era. Combine these two with Anthony Davis you get record setting nights blocking shots.
The Lakers destroyed the Detroit Pistons offense blocking 20 shots. The team leads the NBA in blocked shots.
What chemistry these two have with each other spreads throughout the roster. Many times, you can see one supporting the other on the bench. If one is doing well, the other has taken a step back for the benefit of the team
Between Howard and McGee, the Los Angeles Lakers have the huge advantage and multiple options with front line combinations with Anthony Davis. JaVale and Dwight provides an athletic rim-protector on the defensive end and a pick and roll threat on the offensive end.
McGee sees the similarities of the Lakers with his time in Golden State during their dynasty. Thanks to these two working together, the Lakers have one of the best defenses in the NBA in net rating.
A Dwight Howard absence may expose JaVale McGee’s weaknesses. He doesn’t have the post moves of Howard in a pinch and he has made mistakes on defense in late game situations. The big man rotations will keep Frank Vogel up at night if Dwight Howard sits out.