LOS ANGELES – The wait is over—Dwight Howard is officially back with the Los Angeles Lakers.
After weeks of speculation, the Lakers have signed the veteran center to bolster their roster following the blockbuster Anthony Davis-for-Luka Doncic trade. The move reunites Howard with the franchise where he previously played three separate stints (2012, 2019, 2021) and won an NBA Championship in 2020.
Howard, who last played professionally for the Taoyuan Taiwan Beer Leopards in 2022-23, had previously downplayed a return. But sources confirm that both the Lakers front office and LeBron James pushed for his comeback, believing his experience and defensive presence will be crucial for the team’s playoff push.
“I’m ready,” Howard said in a statement. “This city and this team mean everything to me. I’m here to help bring another championship to L.A.”
Lakers fans have long been calling for Howard’s return, and now, the big man is back in purple and gold. The Lakers are expected to officially introduce Howard at a press conference later this week.
