Dwight Howard is fully focused on both dance and basketball.
Following three nonconsecutive terms with the Los Angeles Lakers, the 38-year-old shared his thoughts on whether he would consider returning to the iconic West Coast team.
“I would definitely return to the Lakers,” Howard told The Post exclusively on Tuesday, moments before his “Dancing With the Stars” partner, Daniella Karagach, joked, “I’m getting him in shape.”
Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach on “DWTS Dedication Night.” Disney
“At this moment, it’s just about me and Danny,” the 6-foot-10 player stated regarding his collaboration with the professional dancer. “No teams involved, just me and Danny.”
Earlier this month, an emotional discussion took place between Howard and Lakers owner Jeanie Buss, 63, on his “Above the Rim With DH 12” podcast.
“I felt so sad. I wanted to return,” the eight-time NBA All-Star reflected. “And I’m unsure what went wrong.”
“You accepted an offer from the Philadelphia 76ers,” Buss responded.
During their conversation, the two addressed the conclusion of his second and most successful tenure with the Lakers during the 2019–2020 season.
The 2004 first-round pick suggested that his former agent had misled him into thinking that Buss and the franchise were not inclined to re-sign him.
Hair Metal Night at “Dancing With the Stars.” Disney
Last year, Howard’s former agent, Charles Briscoe, admitted guilt for his involvement in defrauding him of $7 million through a scheme to purchase the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream.
Earlier this month, Briscoe’s accomplice, Calvin Darden Jr., was found guilty by a federal jury in Manhattan.
“I believe we received so many conflicting messages,” Howard told Buss on his podcast. “In hindsight, considering what I experienced with my agent… I’m not sure what the reality was, because I was told that you guys didn’t have an offer for me.”
“NBA on TNT” sideline reporter Taylor Rooks interviews Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and guard Bronny James. USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
Buss affirmed that there were no games being played on her part.
“Oh, no, that’s not correct,” she clarified. “We made an offer. We truly did.”
Howard replied, “I had no idea. He mentioned—well, he actually said that you guys had made an offer, and then he claimed that the offer was rescinded and turned down.”
Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard in Minneapolis on March 16, 2022, playing against the Minnesota Timberwolves. AP
Later in their discussion, Howard sought confirmation about Buss’s words: “So you all did have an offer for me?”
“Absolutely!” Buss replied.
She pointed out the complexity of timing contract offers amid the NBA’s salary cap, which complicates roster building.
“For a player, if a team communicates, ‘We have a contract ready, but you need to wait to sign it,’ or ‘We have to sign other players first,’ it can certainly feel like you’re not a priority,” Howard explained.
Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard during an NBA basketball game against the Phoenix Suns on Jan. 13, 2022. AP
Buss responded, “I understand why you’d feel that way, and that might be something another team would say to undermine us. However, that’s not our identity, and you are aware of that.”
Howard also expressed curiosity about whether maintaining the 2020 NBA Championship team could have led to a winning streak.
“Do you believe that if we had kept the team intact, we could have secured a couple more championships?” Howard posed the question to the franchise’s president.
“I think so. When you achieve a championship victory, that’s the moment you allow the players a chance to defend their title,” Buss admitted. “But once three or four players didn’t return, it changed everything.”
Kobe Bryant (24) of the Los Angeles Lakers speaks to teammate Dwight Howard (12) while playing against the Portland Trail Blazers during a game on October 31, 2012, at the Rose Garden Arena in Portland, Oregon. NBAE via Getty Images
The 2020 team experienced several departures, including Rajon Rondo, who left as a free agent, while players like Danny Green and JaVale McGee were traded away.
Howard eventually signed a one-year contract with the 76ers but returned to the Lakers for the 2021-22 season, marking the final year of his 18 seasons in the NBA — for now. His previous teams included the Washington Wizards (2018-2019), Charlotte Hornets (2017-2018), Atlanta Hawks (2016-2017), Houston Rockets (2013-2016), and Orlando Magic (2004-2012).
“It’s incredibly valuable to have this conversation, as it eliminates any chance for miscommunication. We’ve reached an understanding,” Howard reflected. “For years, I felt so hurt by this… It felt like we had something, but it appeared we didn’t pursue it as we should have from both sides.”
Dwight Howard on Season 33 of “Dancing With the Stars.” Disney
Buss added, “We would have been better off remaining together. Unfortunately, there was some misdirection or misunderstanding.”
The episode featuring Dwight and Buss coincides with LeBron James and Bronny James making history as the first father-son pair to participate in a regular season NBA game together. They played in the Lakers’ 110-103 season-opening victory against the Timberwolves on Tuesday evening at the Crypto.com Arena.
“That moment, us being at the scorers’ table and checking in simultaneously, is something I’ll never forget,” LeBron, 39, stated after the win. “No matter how old I become, no matter how my memory may fade, I’ll always remember that moment.”
Bronny, 20, shared his thoughts after the win, saying, “I tried to ignore everything happening around me and focused on playing as a rookie without messing up… But I definitely felt the energy, and I appreciate Laker Nation for their support for both me and my dad.”
# Dwight Howard Eyes Lakers Return Amid Dance Journey and Past Misunderstandings
## The Current Landscape of Dwight Howard’s Career
Dwight Howard, the dynamic NBA player known for his incredible athleticism and multiple All-Star selections, has made headlines recently with his potential return to the Los Angeles Lakers. After a season playing overseas and engaging in various personal projects, Howard is looking to reconnect with the franchise that shaped much of his legacy.
### Howard’s Dance Journey: A New Artistic Expression
In addition to his basketball endeavors, Dwight Howard has taken a bold step into the world of dance. His dance journey has not only provided him with a creative outlet but has also showcased his multifaceted personality beyond the basketball court.
– **Dance Competitions**: Howard has participated in various dance competitions, demonstrating his commitment to mastering this new art form.
– **Social Media Presence**: Through platforms like Instagram and TikTok, Howard shares his dance routines, connecting with fans and showcasing his lighter side.
– **Fitness and Flexibility**: Dancing has improved Howard’s agility and flexibility, which can benefit his performance on the court.
### Overcoming Past Misunderstandings with the Lakers
Despite his achievements, Dwight Howard’s relationship with the Lakers has been marred by misunderstandings and mixed emotions. Fans and critics alike have voiced their opinions about his departure and return, often focusing on:
– **Inconsistent Performance**: During his previous stints with the Lakers, Howard’s performance fluctuated, leading to criticisms about his work ethic and commitment.
– **Media Scrutiny**: The media has often painted Howard in a negative light, portraying him as a player who couldn’t handle the pressure of playing in Los Angeles.
– **Team Dynamics**: Howard’s interactions with teammates influenced perceptions of him, leading to discussions about his fit within the Lakers’ culture.
To mend these misunderstandings, it’s vital for Howard to communicate openly and demonstrate his dedication to the team’s success.
## Benefits of a Potential Return to the Lakers
Should Dwight Howard successfully return to the Lakers, both he and the franchise stand to gain numerous benefits. These include:
– **Experience and Leadership**: As a seasoned player, Howard brings invaluable experience and leadership to a relatively young roster.
– **Defensive Prowess**: A return to the Lakers would bolster their defense, an area where Howard has consistently excelled throughout his career.
– **Fan Engagement**: Howard’s unique personality and connection to the fans can increase attendance and viewership, enhancing the team’s overall brand.
### Practical Tips for Howard’s Successful Reintegration
If Dwight Howard aims to reintegrate smoothly into the Lakers, here are practical tips he could consider:
1. **Open Communication**: Establish a dialogue with coaches and teammates to clarify expectations and foster a collaborative environment.
2. **Consistent Work Ethic**: Demonstrate commitment through hard work in practices and games, showing that he’s ready to contribute.
3. **Engage with Fans**: Use social media to rebuild connections with fans, sharing both his journey on the court and his dance experiences off of it.
## Case Studies: Athletes Who Successfully Reinvented Themselves
Many athletes have faced challenges similar to Howard’s but have managed to reinvent themselves effectively. Here are a few notable examples:
| Athlete | Challenge Faced | Successful Strategy |
|—————–|———————————-|——————————————————-|
| Allen Iverson | Struggled with retirement issues | Returned to the sport via coaching and mentoring youth|
| Randy Moss | Criticized for off-field issues | Focused on philanthropy and community engagement |
| Michael Vick | Legal troubles | Embraced activism and became a sports analyst |
These examples illustrate that transformation is possible, showing that Howard can also embrace change and positively impact the Lakers.
### First-Hand Experience: Howard’s Own Reflections
In various interviews, Dwight Howard has expressed his desire to return to the Lakers, citing reasons such as unfinished business and a longing to contribute to a championship team. His reflections on past mistakes and growth demonstrate a mature approach to his career:
– **Acknowledgment of Past Flaws**: Howard has openly discussed his previous missteps, expressing a desire to be more focused and dedicated.
– **Commitment to Improvement**: He is actively working on maintaining peak physical condition, combining basketball training with dance to enhance his overall agility.
– **Passion for the Game**: Howard’s enthusiasm for basketball remains evident, and he has conveyed a longing to finish his career where it began to flourish.
## The Future of the Lakers: What Howard’s Return Could Mean
If Dwight Howard successfully makes his comeback to the Lakers, several potential outcomes could unfold:
### Enhanced Team Dynamics
Howard’s presence could improve the chemistry among players, especially if he embraces a mentorship role for younger players. His experience in high-pressure situations is unparalleled, providing invaluable lessons for teammates.
### Potential Championships
The Lakers are always in pursuit of championships, and Howard’s return could bolster their chances. With the right mindset and integration into the team’s system, he could contribute to a title run.
### Community Impact
Howard’s connection with the community can lead to increased fan support. His return could resonate with long-time Lakers fans, reminding them of his contributions during previous championship runs.
### Engaging the Social Media Audience
Howard’s dance journey and vibrant personality could translate into engaging content for the Lakers’ social media channels, attracting a younger demographic and boosting fan engagement.
## Conclusion
As Dwight Howard sets his sights on a potential return to the Los Angeles Lakers, his journey exemplifies the complexities of professional sports, personal growth, and the power of second chances. With his dance experiences enriching his life, Howard is ready to tackle the challenges ahead—both on and off the court. The Lakers, with their storied history and championship aspirations, might just be the perfect place for him to continue this exciting chapter of his career.
