Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard was one of the players who seriously mulled sitting out the NBA restart. Naturally, outside societal factors are weighing heavily on him.
Howard addressed the idea of leaving the Orlando bubble for family reasons, stating “There are two different pandemics that are killing us. It's been very difficult to push that to the side.”
Dwight Howard on considering leaving the bubble for family reasons: "There are two different pandemics that are killing us. It's been very difficult to push that to the side. When I'm on the court, it's how can I help my teammates get better." #Lakeshow
— Lauren Jones (@LoJoMedia) July 18, 2020
Despite the distractions provided by the outside world, Howard is focused on doing what he can to help the Lakers win a championship.
Dwight Howard cont.: "I have a contractual obligation to this team, the players, the fanbase and to myself, so I want to make sure that I do my job that has been set forth." #Lakeshow
— Lauren Jones (@LoJoMedia) July 18, 2020
The second “pandemic” Howard alludes to is likely the prevalence of police brutality and racial inequality perpetrated against Black Americans.
Howard's initial skepticism regarding the restart stemmed from questions about whether basketball would take away from the social movements lobbying for more equity.
However, the three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year eventually decided to participate, and he figures to play a large part in L.A.'s quest for a championship.
The 34-year-old has been the quintessential role player for the Lakers. Howard averaged 7.5 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.2 blocks on just under 20 minutes per game through his first 62 contests. His 2.3 blocks per 36 minutes is his highest such mark since the 2012-13 season.
Howard is not required to score. But he has been fantastic as a rim runner who can get out in transition and also makes himself available for lobs at and around the basket.
The Lakers have an essential stranglehold on the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference. But the pressure will ramp up come playoff time, and Howard is ready to leave it all on the floor.
Follow Us
Subscribe