The Los Angeles Lakers ended the 2024-25 season with a 50-32 record, securing the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference before being eliminated in five games by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Their playoff run was derailed by the absence of a reliable big man, exposed most clearly when Rudy Gobert dominated in Game 5, finishing with 27 points and 24 rebounds against undersized Lakers lineups.
A pivotal factor in the lack of frontcourt presence was the departure of Anthony Davis midseason. The team's limited size and interior depth often cost them crucial possessions, particularly against bigger opponents like Minnesota had.
Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (27) against Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) and forward LeBron James (23).
Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (27) against Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) and forward LeBron James (23).
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
The Lakers’ strategy to play small-ball without a true center left them vulnerable, and their exit highlighted a glaring weakness heading into the offseason.
That need has fueled speculation about the Lakers’ hunt for a reliable big man.
On Sunday, Dwight Howard, currently with the LA Riots in the Big 3, stirred conversations with a post on X addressing Los Angeles fans:
“Don’t worry we gone bring one back for LA ðð¤.”
While Howard was most likely referring to his current LA team, the timing of the message prompted some to read between the lines about an NBA return.
“Are you coming back to the Lakers?” one fan asked.
“With the way the Lakers are suddenly being run, wouldn’t shock me. SIGN ME UP,” another fan posted.
“LAKERS… SIGN THIS MAN ON A VET MINIMUM DEAL!!!! ð¯ðð,” a third fan added.
“Now that AD gone, we really need you. Y’all owe us a parade,” another fan mentioned.
“Sign. Him. Rob,” urged another.
Howard was part of the Lakers’ 2020 NBA championship team–the only NBA title on his resume. His return would bring playoff experience as well as a physical interior presence. However, he hasn’t played in the NBA since the 2021-22 season.