Dwight Howard not eyeing a preseason return to the Lakers line-up – NBA News
After weeks of speculation that Dwight Howard may be back much sooner to the Los Angeles Lakers starting line-up and would probably play a few preseason games before starting on opening night, Howard has now backed off his stance
of playing in the preseason games and still refuses to put any timeline on his return to the team. Howard underwent a season ending back surgery near the end of the previous season, and has since been rehabbing and working out in Los Angeles, before as well
as after his trade to the Lakers. He sat courtside on Sunday as the Lakers faced the Golden State Warriors, and later said that he is not eyeing a preseason return.
"I'm on track (to return), but my goal wasn't to play (in) a preseason game. My goal is to win a championship. That's what we're shooting for,” said Howard.
Lakers head coach Mike Brown also said that he has had no discussion with Howard regarding his return to action, and that he is not targeting any specific preseason game. He was of the opinion that when doctors gave him the green
signal, he would play Howard.
“He couldn't play here today and so whenever they tell me he can play, he'll play,” said Brown.
The Lakers have seven preseason games remaining, including their fixture against the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday. It is highly unlikely that Howard will be available for that game, and any chance of him returning for any
preseason game is looking less likely as well. Howard said that he is working on strengthening his body and looking forward to returning fully healthy.
“I'm a hard worker. My back just has to get stronger and I have to get everything that surrounds it stronger too so I can play at a high level. Like I said, I want to give these guys everything and give the game of basketball everything
because at the end of the year I want to hold up the trophy, so I want to make sure I'm 100 percent,” added Howard.
The Lakers will open their season on the 2nd of November against their city rivals, the Los Angeles Clippers at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
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