Dwight Howard: Why Critics Undervalue The Lakers' 2020 NBA Championship

Michael

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Post on Jul 07, 2025

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Dwight Howard: Why Critics Undervalue the Lakers' 2020 NBA Championship

The Los Angeles Lakers' 2020 NBA Championship victory remains a source of pride for fans, but some critics downplay its significance, often overlooking the crucial contributions of players like Dwight Howard. This narrative ignores the reality of a team victory forged in the crucible of a demanding season, and unfairly diminishes the impact of several key players. This article will delve into why dismissing the Lakers' 2020 triumph, and especially Howard's role, is a disservice to the team's hard-fought success.

Howard's Unsung Contributions to the Lakers' Dynasty

While LeBron James and Anthony Davis rightfully garner much of the attention for the Lakers' 2020 title run, Dwight Howard's role was far from insignificant. He provided a vital defensive presence, something often overlooked in highlight reels focusing on offensive brilliance. His rim protection and rebounding were crucial in slowing down opposing offenses, a key factor in their playoff success.

• Defensive Prowess: Howard's interior defense was a critical component of the Lakers' stifling defense. He consistently altered shots, blocked opponents, and protected the paint, impacting games in ways that don't always show up in box scores. His presence alone forced opposing teams to adjust their offensive strategies.
• Rebounding Dominance: Howard's rebounding – both offensive and defensive – was a critical factor in the Lakers' ability to control possessions. His ability to grab crucial rebounds, particularly in the playoffs, gave the Lakers second-chance opportunities and prevented opponents from gaining momentum.
• Veteran Leadership: Beyond statistics, Howard provided valuable veteran leadership and mentorship to younger players. His experience in the league and previous championship runs brought a winning mentality to the locker room, contributing to the team's overall chemistry and cohesion.

The Importance of Role Players in Championship Success

Championship teams are rarely built on star power alone. The 2020 Lakers exemplified this perfectly. While James and Davis were the undisputed superstars, players like Howard, Rajon Rondo, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope played pivotal roles in the team’s success. They filled specific needs, often sacrificing individual stats for the collective good of the team. Their contributions, often unsung, were essential for the Lakers' championship run.

Debunking the Undervaluation Narrative

The narrative that undervalues the Lakers' 2020 championship often centers on the perceived weakness of the Western Conference that year. However, this ignores the fact that the playoffs are a grueling test of resilience and adaptability, and the Lakers proved they could overcome any obstacle. Their performance against strong opponents like the Houston Rockets and Denver Nuggets showcased their championship caliber.

Furthermore, focusing solely on regular season performance ignores the context of a shortened season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The unique challenges of that season require a nuanced understanding of the Lakers' achievement.

Conclusion: A Championship Forged in Teamwork

The Lakers' 2020 NBA Championship was a collective triumph, a testament to the power of teamwork and the crucial contributions of every player on the roster. To dismiss the achievement, especially the role of players like Dwight Howard, is to ignore the complexities and nuances of team success in professional basketball. Howard's contributions were integral to their victory, a fact that deserves recognition and appreciation. The 2020 Lakers' championship should be celebrated as a testament to the enduring power of collective effort and the importance of every player, regardless of their star status.