NBA Legend Reveals Disappointing Experience With Grizzlies
Before Dwight Howard became an NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, it was unclear if there was a spot for him in the league. Traded from the Washington Wizards to the Memphis Grizzlies in 2019, Howard was excited about the opportunity to mentor a young Memphis roster, but was told by the Grizzlies that there was no room for him there.
Recently sharing this story on the "My Expert Opinion" show, Howard said, "Grizzlies never said anything to me, they never brought me down to Memphis or anything. So I called the owner, said hey I would love to come down and be a part of the Grizzlies, I know I'm an older player, but I have a lot of experience and wisdom, I would love to help the younger players... He was like, listen, we don't have room for you on the roster."
Howard said the call motivated him to get in shape, and he ultimately landed a workout with the Lakers who signed him to a deal. Playing a big role on that Lakers team, Howard helped them win a championship, which was the first of his career. Playing in 69 games for the Lakers in the 2019-20 season, Howard averaged 18.9 minutes per game, filling an important role off the bench. When the Grizzlies wanted nothing to do with him, Howard got in the gym and earned a spot with the Lakers.
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