Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak was “hopeful” and “optimistic” that Dwight Howard would re-sign with the Lakers on Tuesday. Kupchak stated that he and Howard had a long talk in his office and that he tried to sell Howard on the idea of returning to Los Angeles.
However, Kupchak seemed unsure as to whether or not Howard would return:
Mitch on Dwight coming back next season, “it’s hard for me to say.”
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) April 30, 2013
“We are very confident we can build around Dwight Howard.” – Mitch Kupchak on Lakers’ future plans.
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) April 30, 2013
Kupchak seems to be playing the Howard free agency close to his vest, but it doesn’t sound like he’s anymore confident from today’s meeting with him. During his interview with the media, Howard seemed more and more unsure about what the future held for him:
Dwight Howard says again that he “deserves the right” to have more time to think about his future
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) April 30, 2013
It’s clear that Howard hasn’t begun to think about his decision as free agency doesn’t officially begin until July 1. Given all the turmoil and drama surrounding the team this season, Howard’s return seems 50-50 at best.
Kupchak reiterated that he said that Los Angeles is the right place for Howard and that the Lakers give him the best chance to win a championship. Whether or not Dwight feels the same way will remain to be seen as Laker fans still don’t know if they want him back next season.
Mitch on Dwight: “I think he understands that the sooner he makes a decision the better it is for everybody.”
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) April 30, 2013
Whether or not Dwight does come back to the Lakers will be determined soon. Still, Kupchak doesn’t sound like he’s leaning either way in being optimistic whether or not Howard will return. As always, Mitch did a good job of keeping things close to the chest.
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In case you missed it, be sure to check out our complete recap of Day 1 of Laker exit interviews from their practice facility in El Segundo!
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