The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves in need of bolstering their center position as the season progresses. With questions surrounding the depth and consistency of their frontcourt, one option that could provide a short-term solution is bringing back a familiar face: Dwight Howard. The veteran center, known for his defensive prowess and rebounding, recently appeared on Dancing With the Stars but is now available after his exit from the show. While a trade for a high-profile center remains a possibility, adding Howard could allow the Lakers to preserve assets for other roster needs.
Why Dwight Howard Could Make Sense for the LakersDwight Howard’s experience with the Lakers is well-documented. During his most recent stint with the team in the 2020 season, Howard played a crucial role in their championship run by providing physicality, rim protection, and a veteran presence in the paint. While he’s not the same athletic force he once was, his understanding of the Lakers’ system and familiarity with LeBron James and Anthony Davis could allow for a seamless reintegration into the lineup.
Howard’s addition would give the Lakers a reliable backup who can fill minutes behind Anthony Davis, helping to manage Davis’ workload and maintain defensive stability when he’s off the floor. His rebounding ability and pick-and-roll presence could also add a spark to the second unit. Additionally, having Howard as a low-cost option means the Lakers wouldn’t have to part with valuable assets, which could then be used for more pressing needs, such as improving wing depth or acquiring a consistent shooter.
The Case for Exploring Trade OptionsWhile Howard would be a low-risk signing, the Lakers might still consider a trade to secure a more impactful center with younger legs and greater long-term upside. A trade could bring in a player with more mobility and offensive s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁, providing versatility that Howard might not be able to match at this stage in his career. The Lakers’ front office would need to weigh the benefits of bringing in Howard now versus potentially waiting for the right trade opportunity that fits their system and timeline.
Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term GoalsThe decision to bring in Howard would come down to balancing immediate needs with long-term goals. If the Lakers are looking to conserve their trade assets for a potential blockbuster move later in the season, then Howard could be a smart, temporary solution. On the other hand, if the team wants to secure a player who can contribute beyond this season and into the future, then a trade for a younger center might be the better route.
ConclusionBringing back Dwight Howard would be a familiar and potentially effective way to shore up the Lakers’ frontcourt while maintaining flexibility. His defensive capabilities, rebounding, and experience in high-pressure situations could be just what the Lakers need to buy time and keep Anthony Davis healthy. It would allow the team to use their assets strategically for other moves that could strengthen their overall roster.
Lakers fans will be watching closely to see if the team opts for the safe, cost-effective route of signing Howard or decides to go all-in on a trade for a bigger splash in the center position. Either way, adding depth to the frontcourt is a priority for maintaining their competitive edge as the season unfolds.
