Los Angeles Lakers fans hated and despised Dwight Howard back in 2013 when he chose not to re-sign with the team, instead joining the Houston Rockets. Since then, nobody thought the eight-time All-Star would don a purple-and-gold jersey ever again – at least until last week.

Howard was signed by the Lakers on a one-year, non-guaranteed deal. And while it didn't sit well with some of the team's fans, Dwight understands why people are still mad athim, and he doesn't hate them for that.

Ever since re-joining the Lakers, Howard made it clear that his only goal this season is to help the team win a championship. Although it has been stated on multiple occasions that he will play a limited role with the team, it is still expected that he will become a significant contributor as the season progresses.

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With big man DeMarcus Cousins expected to miss the entire 2019-20 season due to his torn ACL, Howard will be sharing minutes with Anthony Davis and JaVale McGee at center. If he can prove that he can still rebound and defend at a high level, the Lakers will definitely have a better shot at the title.

When healthy, Dwight can still provide double-doubles on a nightly basis, but if he can keep his focus on the Lakers' goal of winning a championship, that will be a great way for him to redeem himself to all the fans who once hated him.

Then again, Howard will have to prove everything on the court before he can regain the trust of the Laker fans.