According to the Lakers, Dwight Howard is back in Los Angeles and will be wearing number 39, a number that has never been worn in Lakers history.
His contract contains zero salary protection. As of October 21st, they will pay him $14,490 each day he remains on the roster, but if he proves to be a distraction the team will let him go.
Our NBA Insider @ShamsCharania reports Dwight Howard will wear No. 39 next season in his return to the Lakers.
First look: pic.twitter.com/RnyjRchwKp
— Stadium (@Stadium) August 26, 2019
To make room for the eight-time All-Star center and 15-year NBA veteran , the Lakers waived forward Aric Holman. He will take over the role expected to be filled by DeMarcus Cousins, who tore his ACL shortly after signing with the Lakers last month. Cousins could miss the entire upcoming season, so Howard will team with JaVale McGee and Anthony Davis to play center for Los Angeles.
Howard’s impending return to L.A. over the past week generated conflicting feelings among Lakers fans, but he clearly persuaded the Lakers he can be a strong supporting player and a good teammate when he worked out for the club.