Los Angeles, CA – In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, free agent center Dwight Howard has agreed to return to the Los Angeles Lakers on a one-year minimum contract, multiple sources have confirmed.
The news comes as a surprise to many, as Howard has bounced around the league in recent years, playing for several teams since his last stint with the Lakers in 2020-21. However, with the Lakers struggling to find consistent frontcourt depth, the team has turned to the veteran center for a potential boost to their interior defense and rebounding.
Howard, 38, brings a wealth of experience to the Lakers, having won an NBA championship with the team in 2020. Known for his dominant defensive presence and athleticism in his prime, Howard will provide a much-needed physical presence in the paint and a veteran voice in the locker room.
While his athleticism may have declined in recent years, Howard remains a formidable force on the defensive end and can still contribute valuable minutes off the bench. His ability to rebound and protect the rim will be crucial for a Lakers team that has struggled to consistently defend against opposing big men.
This move also signals a potential shift in the Lakers’ strategy. After years of pursuing star power, the team appears to be prioritizing veteran experience and a more team-oriented approach. Howard’s return represents a low-risk, high-reward move that could pay dividends for the Lakers down the stretch.
The Lakers are currently battling for a playoff spot in the Western Conference and are in need of a spark. Howard’s return could provide that spark, injecting energy and veteran leadership into a team that is desperate to return to contention.
Howard is expected to join the team immediately and could make his debut as early as 8 January. His return to the purple and gold is sure to generate excitement among Lakers fans, who will be hoping that the veteran center can recapture some of his former magic and help lead the team to another championship run.