Dwight Howard recently cleared the air by committing to NBA’s restart plan in Orlando. Last month there were doubts looming over the 3x Defensive Player of the Year joining the Los Angeles Lakers for their championship run in Orlando.
During the negotiations between Players Association and NBA Dwight Howard felt basketball would eventually shift the conversation from racial injustice to the championship. In addition, the Orlando Bubble was highly restrictive for players and lack of information left Dwight Howard indecisive. While Lebron James was all for NBA’s restart as it gave them a wider platform to voice their opinion, many believed it was because Los Angeles Lakers had the best odds to win it all this year.
Initially, Dwight Howard rallied behind Kyrie Irving who thought “Basketball isn’t needed right now”. Los Angeles Lakers already lost a valuable player in Avery Bradley when he decided to sit the season out. However, Howard eventually came around understanding his commitment and responsibility towards the Los Angeles Lakers and plans to join them in Orlando.
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Dwight plans to give away every single penny he earns from the Los Angeles Lakers to charity
In conversation with Don Lemon on CNN Dwight Howard announced his return realizing the commitment he made to his team when he signed with them. He believes the Lakers have a great opportunity this year being the top title contenders. Moreover, he sided with teammate LeBron James in using the opportunity they are presented with to raise his voice against police brutality.
“I feel like we have a great opportinuty, the Lakers do, for winning the title this year … Yes, I will be joining my team in Orlando.”
Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard tells CNN's @DonLemon that he will be playing when the NBA resumes its regular season.
"Yes, I will be joining my team in Orlando," he says. pic.twitter.com/kk7LkvaEHt
— Don Lemon Tonight (@DonLemonTonight) July 7, 2020
Dwight Howard even pledged his salary to his non-profit campaign “Breathe Again”. He released his statement while in conversation with The Athletic.
Lakers center Dwight Howard tells @TheAthletic @Stadium: “My NBA salary and platform, while in the bubble, will be used to ignite a breath of fresh air into the community.” Full statement: pic.twitter.com/u4JlQ7q1ud
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 7, 2020
Howard fits well with the Los Angeles Lakers, coming up big on defense throughout the season while averaging 7.5 points and 7 boards a game. He has a legitimate chance of winning his first championship after 16 years of ups and downs in the NBA
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