Jared Dudley Openly Asks Prolific Center to Join Lakers for a Championship

The team that got the most mixed response to their early exit from the playoffs this season was the Los Angeles Lakers. On one hand, the LeBron James haters were outrightly celebrating his failure, his fans kept advocating for the superstar. So, the Lakers have a lot to prove coming into the next season and take what they believe belongs to them, the NBA championship. And it seems like for Jared Dudley, bringing Dwight Howard back into their roster is one way to achieve them.

Jared Dudley not subtle in trying to recruit Dwight Howard?

The Lakers season was cut way short courtesy of the Phoenix Suns‘ wrath. While injuries were the leading cause for their fate, an inefficient supporting cast was also part of it. While LeBron James and Anthony Davis aren’t going anywhere, there is a big vacancy in their roster at the center position.

And it seems like, for veteran Jared Dudley, the search is over. He recently commented on a video of Dwight Howard on Instagram in which he is seen working out and preparing for the next season in full force. The caption said, “I want a parade. Let’s work.”

But his former teammate Dudley believes he belongs with the Lakers instead of the Philadelphia 76ers. So, he commented on the post, “Time to come home.” 

Sep 26, 2020; Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Lakers players Dwight Howard (39), LeBron James (23) and Kyle Kuzma (0) celebrate against the Denver Nuggets during the first half in game five of the Western Conference Finals of the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

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Why should the Lakers consider this?

Dwight Howard was a vital part of the purple and gold’s last title run in 2019-20. His role involved stepping up in place of Anthony Davis whenever left the court for a breather. Other than that, his offense was also unlike what it was when he was in his prime, yet he exceeded all expectations.

Thus, his stint with the Championship squad was one of redemption. Unfortunately, a misunderstanding with the front office led to Howard signing a deal with the 76ers instead. But when Andre Drummond failed to stand up to his expectations, Lakers’ fans surely missed Howard’s presence this season.

Oct 11, 2020; Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard (39) smiles while holding the Finals trophy after game six of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena. The Los Angeles Lakers won 106-93 to win the series. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

There has been no clear indication of Dwight’s intentions about staying with the 76ers. So, should we look out for the Lakers and Dwight reuniting for the third time?

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