The Los Angeles Lakers re-signed Dwight Howard with a very clear mission in mind. He will do what Andre Drummond was supposed to do last season, but ultimately couldn’t deliver on: serve as a strong defensive presence in the paint, clean up on the glass and do whatever other dirty work is necessary.
Of course, Howard being Howard – he has grander aspirations. In fact, his offensive desires were a big reason why the Lakers opted not to bring him back last year.
This season, Lakers star LeBron James has decided to meet Howard in he middle. He understands that the big man wants to do some fun stuff on offense, and he’s going to let him.
On one condition.
for those curious, here’s the clip from @DwightHoward’s IG live. He said that he’s going to try to get nine(!!) blocks so he can hit more threes 😂 pic.twitter.com/Gv4L8MRUq6
— Nicole Ganglani (@nicoleganglani) October 2, 2021
“LeBron said if I get two blocks, I can get a three-pointer,” said Howard. “I’m finna try to get nine blocks every game.”
Howard is a career 16-percent shooter from beyond the arc, so him going nuts from three should make for some entertaining experiences.
Fortunately, it doesn’t feel like this is a problem the Lakers will have to worry about too much. Last season, Howard averaged .9 blocks per game with the Sixers.
Urban Meyer’s wife responds after more troubling photos leak out. https://t.co/pYns20UR9p
— Game 7 (@game7__) October 3, 2021
Jokey Howard stuff aside, this is going to be a big year for the Lakers. Clearly the organization retooled itself this offseason with the intention of competing for a title. Anthony Davis looks to be in the best shape of his life. James, similarly, is looking like a monster these days.
On paper, LA has all the pieces necessary to win a championship. Whether or not they’ll ultimately be able to live up to expectations remains to be seen.
Related: James Harden’s Blunt Take On LeBron James, Russell Westbrook-Led Lakers
Charles Kruger has been credentialed to cover two Super Bowls, four NBA Finals, and one World Series. A 20-year veteran in the sports world, he has sources spanning the NBA, MLB, NFL, UFC and NASCAR. Currently residing in Los Angeles, Calif., he is Game 7’s go-to source for rumors surrounding the Lakers, Clippers and Dodgers.
