Dwight Howard stirred speculation about a potential return to the LA Lakers by sharing a playful GIF of himself from his Lakers days on social media. The timing was notable, coming after the Lakers’ 127-102 blowout loss to the Denver Nuggets, sparking fans to wonder if the veteran big man was hinting at a comeback.
Howard’s Cryptic Post and Nuggets History
Howard’s GIF coincided with renewed discussions about his defensive efforts against Nikola Jokić during the Lakers’ 2020 Western Conference Finals win in the NBA Bubble. On Kevin Garnett’s podcast KG Certified, Howard revisited those matchups, sharing how he mentally and physically prepared to challenge the Nuggets’ star:
“I wanted (Nikola Jokic) to see that every time he looked up, I was right there… Even in the bubble, all of us had our own meal rooms. I went to his meal room… Just so I could like, ‘Yeah, I’m here. Wherever you want to go, I’m going to be right there.’”
The Lakers won that series in five games, with Howard’s defensive presence playing a significant role.
Howard’s Legacy with the Lakers
Howard’s second stint in LA (2019-20) proved pivotal in reshaping his image among Lakers fans. After a tumultuous first run with the team in 2012-13, his return was met with skepticism. However, he embraced a reduced role, contributing as a defensive anchor and energy player off the bench.
- 2019-20 Season Stats:
- 7.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.1 blocks per game in 69 regular-season appearances.
- His efforts earned him ninth place in Sixth Man of the Year voting.
His impact extended into the postseason, where his physical play and defensive focus were crucial during the Lakers’ championship run.
Could Howard Rejoin the Lakers?
Howard’s social media post, coupled with the Lakers’ struggles against Denver’s Nikola Jokić, has fueled speculation about a potential reunion. While Howard, now 38, is no longer the dominant player he once was, his veteran experience and willingness to embrace a specific role could make him a valuable addition to a team seeking depth in the frontcourt.
As the Lakers continue to evaluate their roster and navigate the season, a return for Howard isn’t entirely out of the question—especially given his history of stepping up in critical moments.
