Lakers News: Dwight Howard Reflects on his Resurgence after a 20-Point Double-Double against Cavaliers

As Los Angeles Lakers cruised past Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday, Dwight Howard registered a 20-point double-double. Going back a few years in the NBA, it would have hardly seemed to be true. But Dwight Howard has settled into the Lakers side since coming in as a last-minute signing.

Howard played for the Lakers previously in the 2012-13 season. He had finished the season with the lowest average after his second season. He was also criticized by Kobe Bryant of not being serious, probably because of the smile that he plays with. Howard has since then played for quite a few teams and was also waived off a few times.

But coming in as a late cover for DeMarcus Cousins in the 2019/20 NBA pre-season, Howard seems to have found his old self and continues to play with his signature smile.

When asked if this is the most fun he’s ever had on the court, Howard said, via Sports Illustrated: “It’s more accepted. I think a lot of times in the past, it wasn’t accepted for guys to have fun like this on the court. But I think what it’s showing is that it’s just pure joy. For me, this is like my sanctuary. For an artist, when they want to show how thankful they are, they make music. For a basketball player, it’s on the court.”

Dwight Howard, now on a guaranteed contract

Until a few weeks back, Howard was on a non-guaranteed contract, which the Lakers made guaranteed till the end of the season. Howard admitted that he currently feels freed from everything else and is able to concentrate on Basketball.

“I’m just grateful,” Howard said. “I don’t look at the stat sheet. I don’t look at anything. I’m just happy to be out there playing basketball. Playing here in LA has been such a blessing for me and I cherish every single moment. So when I’m out there on the floor, can’t do nothing but give 135 percent and have fun in the process.”