Dwight Howard, Andrew Bynum and the Los Angeles Lakers – NBA Feature (Part-5)
Leadership Qualities
When it comes to leading the team out of trouble or from the front Howard has no doubt touched new heights in the last few years. His attitude clearly depicts that he is not afraid to lead the side against any opponent. Infact
the more intense the competition gets the best it brings out of him.
The No. 1 pick of the 2004 draft has clearly proven that what he can bring to the table right from the beginning of his NBA career. With every season Howard has showed tremendous growth which truly shows his passion for the game
and to be the number one centre of the league.
In comparison to him, Bynum, who was a much hyped player when he was drafted by the Lakers as a first round pick from the 2005 draft, failed to live up to his expectations as he didn’t enhanced his game much with time.
Many are of the view that it was because of the backseat role he has been assigned over the year. In the presence of the more experienced and star players like Kobe Bryant and Lamar Odom, it’s hard for Bynum to become an impactful
or a leading player.
Therefore his inclusion in the side always remain a question mark, but I believe that a true champion is one who can find his way up in difficult and awkward scenarios. Over the years, there were many opportunities had came Bynum’s
way in the presence of Bryant and other big players of the Lakers, but he failed to make the best of those opportunities.
Still few say that if Bynum is put into a leading role it would definitely enhance his game, but I believe that the player who is not that keen to run hard on the floor and didn’t look to chase down the basketball or pick the tough
rivals in order to nip them like Howard do, it wouldn’t be possible for him to raise his level of play no matter whatever role he is been given.
It is because of this lack of eagerness, similar approach throughout his career, Andrew Bynum has failed to attain the superstar status, and moreover it’s hard to defend this kind of attitude for long time. So if Bynum wants to
achieve a megastar status he needs to change his attitude towards the game.
Even if Bynum makes it in to the Orlando Magic in place of Dwight Howard and his approach remains the same, it wouldn’t be possible for him to make his mark, as with more responsibility comes more pressure and becoming a franchise
player in an instant can damage his game instead of raising his level.
It is ultimately Bynum who is more responsible for this approach towards the game. He has still a lot of ground to cover before he can stand shoulder to shoulder with Howard and be counted as one of the all time greats. This kind
of criticism will keep coming until Bynum shows the similar passion and eagerness that Howard has done over the years.
Considering all the points mentioned above, Howard one again emerges as a winner.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article do not represent Bettor.com’s editorial policy.
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