Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving doesn't support the NBA resuming the 2019-20 season due to the ongoing Black Lives Matter movement in the United States. Now, it seems like the four-time All-Star has found a surprising ally in Los Angeles Lakers big man Dwight Howard.

In a statement shared to CNN (via Jill Martin), Howard agreed with Irving's stance on the resumption of the season this July. The Lakers center said that while the possibility of winning his first NBA championship is very much within his grasp, achieving unity “would be an even bigger championship” — an opportunity he described as “too beautiful to pass up.”

https://twitter.com/ByJillMartin/status/1271972402457718790

Judging from Howard's words, it doesn't seem like the former Defensive Player of the Year will join the Lakers when the NBA comes back in Orlando this July. From a basketball standpoint, this will likely become an issue the Purple and Gold will need to address quickly, as they have enjoyed great production from Howard this season.

Despite averaging career-lows across the board, Howard is playing his role well and has been a positive factor defensively for Los Angeles. Through 62 games, the 34-year old is averaging 7.5 points and 7.4 rebounds in less than 20 minutes a night.

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Personally, Howard could be very well on his way to winning his first NBA championship, with the Lakers standing among the favorites to win it all. However, for Dwight, more pressing issues are at stake.

The Black Lives Matter movement has caused a divide on whether the return of the NBA would distract people from focusing on the real world issue of racism. Irving initially drew some flak for his stance from those in favor of resuming the season.

LeBron James is among those against Irving, as he is advocating that he can still become a voice for change even while playing basketball. It's a wonder how James will react to his current Lakers teammate, Howard, supporting Kyrie's position.

Peaceful protests are still ongoing all over the United States over the death of George Floyd, an African-American who was killed while in police custody in Minneapolis. Several NBA players have used their voice to fight the injustices happening in America, with some even joining rallies in their respective cities.