This season, the Lakers' record has been very bad, they only finished 11th in the West, and they didn't even go in the playoffs. In the Lakers, in addition to the "360 combination", only Tucker, Nunn, Reeves and others hold guarantee contracts, and most of the remaining players are basic salary players.
After a losing season, most of these low-paid players have to go their separate ways. However, there are also people who do not abandon the Lakers, such as Howard. In a recent interview, Howard made his first statement, saying he wanted to return to the Lakers on the grounds that he loved the city and the fans here.
"Do I want to come back?" Why should I leave? Howard said in an interview. I want to be fixed somewhere. I love being here, I love the fans... I'm nearing the end of my career, so I want a chance where I can go out and show my skills and talents and do it the right way and still win. I feel like I deserve it. ”
Last season, Howard was not used much with the Lakers, averaging just 16.2 minutes per game, a career low. However, fans know that Howard is not incompetent, but that Vogel does not like to use him. Now, Vogel has left the Lakers, which may be a big reason why Howard wants to stay in the team.
To be sure, the Lakers will undergo a major blood change in the offseason. But keeping Howard would help the Lakers. As an experienced big man who can defend paint and score under the basket, he brings valuable skills to the team.