Dwight’s Decision

The National Basketball Association (NBA) – it’s a place where the world’s best basketball players are watched by millions – and paid millions – to represent their teams. Dwight Howard, a former center for the Orlando Magic, recently chose to represent the Los Angeles Lakers.

“I wonder why the Lakers would sign him, knowing he is still recovering from a back injury,” said Urbana High School Teacher Brian McAndrew. “I think he will make the Lakers a hard team to beat in the western conference, [however] he will not be like LeBron James and the Miami Heat.”

Howard is known for his dominance, especially in the paint. But coming off of a recent back injury, will his game improve on the Lakers?

Sophomore Ricardo Vargas predicts Howard “will not be as productive in the first few months, but around playoff time he will be 100 percent.” Vargas said “the whole trade to the Lakers meant that the NBA had another powerhouse and made him a villain, like LeBron James when he left Cleveland for Miami.”

With more than 25 NBA teams, “Howard’s trade to the Lakers has caused a lot of teams to get better,” said Vargas. “If I am [Dallas] The Mavericks, I am nervous. The Clippers have a fighting chance with Blake Griffin an guard Paul, and OKC will be a clear contender for Howard and the Lakers,” said Mr.McAndrew.

Mr. McAndrew added that “[Though] L.A has Howard, the team is getting old and their age will play a factor in getting into playoffs.”

Howard’s trade to the Lakers has given the Lakers a certain edge. Many viewers are looking forward to this NBA season, and ultimately to the next NBA champions.