The Los Angeles Lakers appear to be one of the top NBA Finals contenders in the Western Conference. After their blockbuster trade to acquire Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks, they have played extremely well.
Even with LeBron James out due to a groin injury, the Lakers have continued finding ways to win basketball games. They have lost a few along the way, but the talent is there for Los Angeles to make a postseason run.
One of the main questions surrounding the team has to do with the center position.
Ahead of the deadline, the Lakers also agreed to a trade that would have acquired Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets. That trade ended up being rescinded after Los Angeles found things they didn't like in Williams' physical.
Dwight Howard has come up in rumors as a potential option for the final games of the regular season and into the playoffs.
While the rumors have been swirling, Howard has made it clear that he has no interest in a reunion with the Lakers.
According to a report from TMZ Sports, Howard wouldn't return to Los Angeles and he also said that the Lakers would not have interest in calling him.
"Lakers not calling me, brother," Howard said.
He also said that he remains ready to play, but that he is happy spending more time with his family away from the game.
"I'm always ready," he said, "but there's more to life than basketball."
Howard put together a strong 18-year NBA career. He averaged 15.7 points per game to go along with 11.8 rebounds and 1.9 blocks.
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This story was originally published March 21, 2025 at 1:28 PM.