The misunderstanding between Dwight Howard and the Los Angeles Lakers has been cleared up, thanks to a recent conversation between Howard and Lakers controlling owner Jeanie Buss. Howard had been led to believe by his former agent that the Lakers had no interest in re-signing him after their 2020 championship season, but Buss revealed that the team had actually made an offer.
The confusion stemmed from Howard’s former agent, Charles Briscoe, who was later convicted of defrauding Howard of $7 million. Briscoe worked with Calvin Darden Jr. to perpetrate the fraud, and both were convicted in separate cases.
Howard and Buss discussed the situation on Howard’s podcast, “Above the Rim with DH12.” Buss explained that the Lakers had made an offer to Howard but that the timing and negotiations involved in building a roster can sometimes be complex. Howard acknowledged that he felt hurt by the misunderstanding but expressed gratitude for the opportunity to have a clear conversation with Buss.
Both Howard and Buss agreed that the Lakers could have won additional championships had the 2020 team stayed together. However, several players, including Rajon Rondo, Danny Green, and JaVale McGee, left the team after the championship season.
Howard ultimately returned to the Lakers for the 2021-22 season, but his time with the team was brief. He signed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers before returning to the Lakers.
The conversation between Howard and Buss has clarified the misunderstanding and brought closure to a chapter in their relationship. Both parties expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to discuss the situation openly and honestly.