Dwight Howard Thinks 2019-20 Lakers Would've Won 3 Championships In A Row If They Never Split

Dwight Howard, reflecting on the Los Angeles Lakers' early playoff exit, took to X to share his thoughts. In his post, Howard lamented the decision to split up the 2019-20 Lakers team, suggesting that they could have achieved a three-peat if they had remained together.

"They should’ve never split that team up … we would’ve had 3 in a row like my son would say  'On Skibidi!' ya saying talk about it on stream…what platform should I stream on."

Howard's post expressed regret over the breakup of the championship team, indicating that they had the potential to secure three consecutive championships. He humorously referenced his son's phrase "On Skibidi" to emphasize the missed opportunity for a three-peat.

The Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, claimed the NBA Championship in the 2019-20 season, with Howard playing a pivotal role in their success. However, subsequent seasons saw changes to the roster, and the team failed to replicate their championship-winning form.

During the 2020 season, Howard's contributions to the Lakers' success were notable, particularly in their championship run. Despite averaging 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds per game during the 2022-23 season, Howard's impact on the team's chemistry and defensive presence was significant.

The Lakers' recent playoff elimination at the hands of the Denver Nuggets marked their second consecutive exit at the hands of the same team. Howard's post-game reflection underscores the frustration felt by many associated with the Lakers organization, lamenting what could have been if the championship team had remained intact.

As a free agent, Howard remains available for signing by any team in the league. With his wealth of experience and championship pedigree, Howard could potentially contribute to a team in need of veteran leadership and frontcourt depth.

Overall, Howard's viral post highlights the lingering sentiment among fans and former players regarding the breakup of the 2019-20 Lakers team and the missed opportunity for sustained success.

The 2020 Lakers Could Have Won One More Title If They Stayed Healthy 

The 2020 Los Angeles Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, secured the NBA Championship, showcasing their dominance on both ends of the court. However, the subsequent season saw changes to the Lakers roster, and injuries plagued their title defense, ultimately leading to a premature playoff exit.

Had the Lakers managed to retain their stars from the previous championship-winning season and kept them healthy, they would have been formidable contenders for another title. 

The revamped squad of the 2021 Lakers still boasted considerable talent and experience, positioning them as favorites for postseason success. However, injuries to key players, particularly LeBron James and Anthony Davis, disrupted their campaign.

LeBron James, known for his durability and longevity, suffered from injuries that sidelined him for a significant portion of the 2021 season. Davis, a dominant force in the frontcourt, also faced injury setbacks, further weakening the Lakers' chances of success. Despite their talent and depth, the Lakers struggled to maintain consistency without their two stars at full strength.

The Lakers' playoff journey exemplified the impact of injuries on their postseason aspirations. As the 7th seed in the Western Conference, they faced an uphill battle against the higher-seeded Phoenix Suns in the first round. Despite their resilience and determination, the Lakers fell short, with injuries once again hampering their efforts.

In a hypothetical scenario where the Lakers remained healthy throughout the season and playoffs, they would have likely overcome the challenges posed by injuries and advanced deeper into the postseason. With LeBron James orchestrating the offense and Anthony Davis anchoring the defense, the Lakers would have posed a formidable threat to any team in their path.

Ultimately, injuries are an unavoidable aspect of professional sports, and their impact on team success cannot be underestimated. While the 2020 Lakers showcased their championship pedigree, the following season's challenges underscored the importance of health and continuity in pursuit of sustained success in the NBA.