Dwight Howard barely played in the Lakers 4-1 series win over the Houston Rockets, relegated to the bench as Los Angeles played small ball to match Houston’s signature style. After playing just 16 total minutes in the Western Conference semifinals, Howard finally returned to the court to play a significant role against the Denver Nuggets – and he looked like the former three-time defensive player of the year the Lakers hoped he could be at age 34.
In 16 minutes on the floor, Howard had 13 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 blocks, and was +14 for the night. He also played a key role in getting Nuggets star Nikola Jokic in foul trouble, annoying Jokic with physical play in the key.
Dwight is bringing it on the defensive side 😤🤚
(📺: TNT) pic.twitter.com/F43XMnt5F2
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) September 19, 2020
This block from Dwight. 😳 pic.twitter.com/cdBSxGpAUA
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) September 19, 2020
As always, Howard is still a dangerous finisher around the rim, and he was also effective at the foul line in Game 1, shooting 5-of-8 on free throws.
LeBron lob to DWIGHT 🔨 pic.twitter.com/nxj7RTWjnp
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) September 19, 2020
In the first half with the Lakers surging to a lead that they wouldn’t surrender for the rest of the game, Howard even snuck into the Nuggets’ huddle.
Dwight Howard getting into Nuggets players heads by sneaking in their team huddle pic.twitter.com/q1zzvEHkFO
— Main Team (@MainTeamSports) September 19, 2020
