NBA Offseason Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers possibly interested in $78 million NBA Champion to solidify roster around Luka Doncic and LeBron James | NBA News
The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly considering a reunion with NBA champion Dwight Howard to address their glaring lack of depth at the center position. This comes after the team’s failed attempt to acquire Charlotte Hornets’ Mark Williams, which led them to sign Alex Len in free agency. While Len is a solid addition, he alone may not be enough to solidify the Lakers’ frontcourt for a championship run.
CBS Sports’ Sam Quinn recently analyzed potential offseason moves for the Los Angeles Lakers, highlighting former No. 1 pick Deandre Ayton as a possible target. However, Quinn also suggested that Dwight Howard, who last played for the Lakers in 2022, could be a viable and cost-effective option. Howard, a key member of the Lakers’ 2020 championship team, has remained active, playing for the Taoyuan Leopards and Taiwan Mustangs in Taiwan over the past two years.
“Ayton is an impending free agent who, despite his words, needs to prove himself to the NBA again if he wants another payday,” Quinn wrote. “And as bad as things have looked at times, he was once an absolutely critical part of an NBA Finalist in Phoenix.”
Dwight Howard (Image via AP Photo)
Dwight Howard’s previous stint with the Los Angeles Lakers saw him average 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds on 61.2% shooting. While his numbers may not jump off the page, his experience and physical presence could provide the Lakers with much-needed depth. Quinn also noted that Howard’s skill level might not be far off from Ayton’s at this stage of their careers.
“James has a history of rehabilitating flawed but talented players whose careers have fallen off of the rails. Is Ayton really all that different from late-career Dwight Howard?” Quinn added. “This would be a low-risk, high-reward swing for the Lakers.”
With the Los Angeles Lakers aiming to maximize LeBron James’ remaining years, adding a proven veteran like Dwight Howard could be a strategic move. His familiarity with the organization and ability to contribute in limited minutes make him an intriguing option. As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on the Lakers to see if they pull the trigger on this potential reunion.
Also read: Drake throws shade at Sacramento Kings star: Hip-hop drama heats up after Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl mic drop
Let us know in the comments down below if you feel this move could benefit LeBron, Luka, and the Los Angeles Lakers. Also, don’t forget to follow NBA TOI to get the latest updates on everything happening in the world of basketball.
