LeBron James Calls Dwight Howard ‘Animal’ After Huge Performance vs. Spurs

When the Los Angeles Lakers signed Dwight Howard in August, most fans were skeptical about his ability to contribute to the team in a positive way.

Six games into the 2019-20 season, however, all signs regarding Howard have been great. After he played a sizable role in the Lakers’ 103-96 win over the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday, LeBron James showed some appreciation via social media.

Howard scored 14 points and was perfect from the field against the Spurs, but it was his production and effort on the defensive end that was most impressive.

He had 13 rebounds to go along with two blocked shots in the game. He did all that in just 21 minutes of playing time.

So far this season, Howard is averaging 6.8 points, 8.2 rebounds and 2.3 blocks while playing 21.3 minutes per game.

He’s shown impressive effort and activity boxing out for rebounds, setting solid screens, protecting the rim and even committing hard fouls when necessary.

Until recently, Howard was one of the more reviled NBA players in Los Angeles because of the drama that surrounded his first stint with the Lakers in the 2012-13 season.

So far this season, he’s managed to win over many Lakers fans and earn some redemption along the way.