NBA icon Dwight Howard is eagerly anticipating the start of the new season, particularly the return of the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers are set to kick off the 20252026 NBA season on Tuesday night against the Golden State Warriors. Howard expressed his affection for the team on Facebook, stating, “Once a Laker, Always a Laker #familyties.”
Los Angeles Lakers Season Ahead
As the defending NBA champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder will also be competing against the Houston Rockets on the same night. This season marks the beginning of the Luka Doncic era for the Lakers, who aim to capitalize on their impressive roster.
Last Season Highlights
During the previous season, the Lakers partnered LeBron James and Anthony Davis on the court. However, midway through the season, the Lakers executed a surprising trade that involved moving Davis to acquire Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks. Doncic played 28 games for the Lakers, contributing significantly with averages of:
- 28.2 points per game
- 8.1 rebounds per game
- 7.5 assists per game
- 43% shooting from the field
- 37% shooting from threepoint range
Dwight Howard’s Legacy
Though Dwight Howard did not spend the majority of his career with the Lakers, he remains a devoted fan. Throughout his Hall of Fame career, he has had multiple stints with the team. Howard first joined the Lakers after leaving the Orlando Magic, completing a oneseason tenure that included 76 games.
In 2013, he signed a fouryear contract with the Houston Rockets but later played for several other teams. He returned to the Lakers for the 20192020 season, leading to his only NBA Championship. This victory has solidified his loyalty to the franchise.
Howard’s Performance with the Lakers
Over three seasons with the Lakers, Howard appeared in 205 games. His average statistics during this period were:
- 10.7 points per game
- 8.8 rebounds per game
- 1.5 blocks per game
Howard started 105 of those games, demonstrating his key role in the team’s success. After a brief return to the Lakers in the 20212022 season, he has not participated in the NBA since.
As the Lakers prepare for another exciting season, Howard’s unwavering loyalty to the team remains a significant aspect of his identity as a player.