Dwight Howard Has No Loyalty To L.A. Lakers

Dwight Howard recently stated that he wants to participate in the All-Star game this coming weekend.

In an age where countless AAU games in the summer occur and wins really do not mean all that much, Dwight Howard has seemed to feed into that school of thought. Don’t forget he was a product of that culture because he did not play college basketball.

Howard seems to be more interested in playing in the all-star game than with his Los Angeles Lakers. Howard has recently missed three games with the Lakers due to a shoulder injury and reluctantly played last Thursday night in Boston when Kobe Bryant called him out and told the media that they needed Howard and that he needs to play in pain.

Some wondered if Howard would ever play again for the Lakers because of his injury and because he is a free agent at the end of the year.

Why would he risk it?

To his fairness, he did come back in the line and had 19 points and 18 rebounds in the Lakers win last night against the Phoenix Suns. That is the Dwight Howard that the Lakers will need if they are to make a run at a playoff spot.

The All-Star Break would be a great opportunity to rest his shoulder and not risk further injury. However, Howard has is priorities set and wants to take part in the festivities. Some Lakers fans are holding their breath, while others just want Howard to go away because they do not feel like he is a true Laker and because he will not make a commitment to the organization.

Have fun Dwight. Be careful. Enjoy your All-Star Weekend.

Follow Bert DeSalvo on Twitter @CoachDeSalvo