Jeanie Buss, Dwight Howard (Images Credit: Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Lakers’ 2020 championship roster remains a topic of conversation, especially as the team has struggled to succeed similarly in recent seasons. Former NBA star Dwight Howard was instrumental in that championship run.

However, after the victory, the Lakers traded many key players and didn’t extend some players’ contracts, including their former center. Howard blamed Lakers’ general manager Rob Pelinka for this. Following the Lakers’ title win, Howard joined the Philadelphia 76ers.

Recently, Howard brought up the topic again during an appearance by Lakers’ owner Jeanie Buss on his podcast, “Above The Rim With DH 12.” He expressed disappointment over not returning to the Lakers after the championship season.

“I was sad. I wanted to come back, and I don’t know what had happened,” Howard said.

In response, Buss explained that the Lakers had hoped to bring Howard back. However, by the time they were ready to offer him a spot on the roster, Howard had already signed a deal with the Philadelphia 76ers.

“You took an offer from the Philadelphia 76ers,” Buss said.

Dwight Howard Pleads For Lakers Comeback After Clearing Up Departure Confusion

After Lakers owner Jeanie Buss blamed Dwight Howard for leaving the team, Howard claimed that there may have been some miscommunication during his departure. He responded by clarifying that he wasn’t aware the Lakers had a spot available for him.

“Because what I was told was that you guys didn’t have an offer for me,” Howard said.

The former Lakers star then humorously pleaded with Buss to give him another opportunity to rejoin the Lakers.

“I’m in shape for basketball, so Jeanie, give me one more chance,” he said.

Howard had three different stints with the Lakers during his career. After spending one season with the Philadelphia 76ers, he returned to the Lakers for his final run in the NBA. He averaged 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds over 60 regular-season games during the 2021-22 season.