Dwight Howard was ejected during the third quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers’ Game 4 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday night. The loss resulted in a sweep of LA, and in many ways it was the perfect ending to an embarrassing season filled with unmet expectations.
With Kobe Bryant watching the game from the sidelines and nursing a torn Achilles tendon, many have accused Howard of quitting on the team. The Lakers were trailing by more than 20 points at the time he was booted, and Howard’s ejection essentially eliminated any chance of a comeback. Dwight apologized on Twitter after the game.
“I’m still upset about tonight’s game and the way this season ended,” Howard wrote early Monday morning. “I’m mad I lost my cool. I’m sorry for letting my team and our fans down when they needed me the most. If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year it’s that I need to be more responsible for my actions and learn to breathe! Maybe I will take up yoga and come back calmer or @charliesheen can help me with my anger management.”
Since the Lakers had just been swept a few hours prior to the tweets, it was probably a little too soon for the Charlie Sheen joke. That being said, at least Howard apologized. He also hinted that he would like to return to LA next season.
“But despite our tough season, it is an honor being a member of a team with this amazing history (and) the best fans in the league!” he continued. “I hope I get the chance to make it up to you! Thank (you) LA!”
Based on some of the stuff Magic Johnson said after the game, it’s probably safe to assume he doesn’t think Howard deserves another chance. However, the Lakers would be wise to bring him back. Their roster is aging and ailing, and Howard is still in his prime. If they let him walk, they could be in for some very tough seasons over the next few years. Yeah, tougher than this one.
