The Orlando Bubble was unique and challenging for NBA players. But nobody handled business like the Los Angeles Lakers. Their camaraderie was through the roof, their synergy on point, and mainly, they were a greatly constructed NBA team. This is why many were perplexed when Rob Pelinka decided to blow the operation up after claiming a title. Dwight Howard recently spoke out about it while on Gil’s Arena.

Pinning the blame on the Lakers GM, he said a “dynasty” halted. Even Phil Handy, a former assistant coach agreed with him. Is there any truth to it though? The Bubble team had tenacity on both sides of the floor. The Lakers also had key veterans like Howard, Rondo, and McGee, none of whom were brought back. Moreover, Trevor Lane also believes Pelinka faltered, not in his philosophy, but in his execution.

“We also have to remember that this was a summer that was unlike any other. The timeframe between winning the championship and the next season starting because of COVID was extremely small. We are talking about roughly 70 days between the end of one season and the start of the next. So the thought for the Lakers was they needed to bring in some fresh legs,” Lane explained.

When the next season began, there were no reservations over the Lakers roster. It was highly regarded as per Lane. But where he sees Pelinka slip up is his contract offerings and letting go of Howard and McGee, two elite defenders and lob threats. “I do think that Rob went too far. For example, the Dwight Howard situation. He could have brought back Dwight. Dwight was on a minimum deal,” he said.

With Howard, he would go on to join the Philadelphia 76ers that offseason. The Purple and Gold looked great, but injuries derailed their season massively. However, even though years have passed, what if the silhouette of the 2020 Lakers still exists?

Dwight Howard sees the 2020 LA spark in the Wolves

The Minnesota Timberwolves thoroughly impressed the NBA. Anthony Edwards, a stellar centerpiece bound everything together. They were the best defensive team in the league and had a coordinated offense. Furthermore, their brotherhood was paramount to their success. Coincidentally, they also beat the Denver Nuggets in the postseason, like the 2020 Lakers.

When watching them, Dwight Howard admitted he sees flashes of the Bubble team in the Wolves.

“Watching Minnesota play this year, they remind me, just the chemistry that our team had when we won our championship, especially the defensive intensity that we had. Our defense — our defensive intensity was through the roof. We pressured every possession. We forced teams to take tough shots, and it looks like Minnesota is doin’ the exact same thing,” he said during a Twitter space.

Their mastery of both ends of the floor is almost identical. Plus, they also have outstanding role players who play their roles without complaints. Stalwarts such as Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid are irreplaceable pieces that provide the Wolves with tremendous energy off the bench.

With the way their team has shaped, they might just be the closest to the 2020 Lakers. And given their intentions to remain together, can one title ignite a dynasty in Minnesota? What are your opinions on this? Let us know in the comments below.