Dwight Howard to Lakers Is an Inevitable Step Towards Lakers' Next Dynasty
Dwight Howard will end up a Los Angeles Laker, and the championship banners will quickly follow in Tinseltown.
The reality of Howard being a Laker now seems like a mere formality.
Inevitable Move
Howard going to the Lakers has seemed like a natural. It is just the way things go in the NBA. Los Angeles always finds a way to land the game's premier centers.
The Lakers acquired Wilt Chamberlain. Next they landed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar from the Bucks. Shaquile O'Neal was next.
The one thing casting doubt on this was a reported reluctance of the Lakers to part ways with their current center, Andrew Bynum. That is no longer a hurdle.
Ken Berger of CBSSports.com reported that his company learned from "a person with knowledge of the team's strategy," that "executive Jim Buss finally has dropped his opposition to trading center Andrew Bynum 'for the right deal.'"
The Lakers now have an enticing package to offer the Magic, and Orlando will be eager to deal Howard before he leaves via free agency.
Howard would also likely jump at a chance to sign a contract with the Lakers. They offer talent around him and a huge market to shine in.
Why Championships Would Follow
Howard would combine with Pau Gasol to form one of the greatest big men combinations the league has seen.
Gasol has the low post offense that would free Dwight from being exposed for his lack of low post moves. It would also allow Howard to key on grabbing offensive boards, and finding space when double teams go to Gasol or Kobe.
On the defensive end, Howard would give the presence the Lakers need. The Lakers have been abused by quick guards. Those same guards are a lot more reluctant to take the ball to the rack when Howard is looming under the rim.
This would allow Lakers defenders to close in on their perimeter defense.
Adding Howard would also help extend Gasol's effectiveness. Pau is 31 years old, but this move will help him save his legs on the defensive end, and ease some of the pressure he faces on the offensive end.
This could be an effective duo for the next four years. In the meantime, the Lakers can find talent to fill in around Howard and build for the era following Kobe Bryant's retirement.
