Major Star Returns For Lakers Amidst LeBron James Injury Turmoil

The Los Angeles Lakers have entered their matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers with all the disadvantages that they possibly could. Not only are they extremely shorthanded, but they also had a very humiliating 107-104 loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder. However, this vital game could surely use as many helping hands as possible. With Dwight Howard back, will it make any difference?

Dwight Howard makes his comeback

Howard had missed two games because of neck stiffness so far. Unfortunately, the injury woes just keep on coming for the Los Angeles Lakers. LeBron James is not playing this game, like the one against OKC because of a strain in his abdomen.

Even Anthony Davis was probable for this game because of an injury in his right thumb. He showed up eventually, only to leave again minutes into the game because of a stomach illness. Right now, the purple and gold are in quite a desperate position. Having Howard back for a game as important as this one will increase their chances of winning.

The Lakers could certainly use a victory to improve their record. With Davis now out, Westbrook and Howard will have to focus on carrying the team to victory against the Portland Trail Blazers, which at this point seems very unlikely.

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The Los Angeles Lakers don’t look too great against Blazers

In the first quarter itself, the Lakers proved that playing without Bron and some of their other teammates is going to be the reason for their inevitable end against the Blazers. Portland outscored LA 36-14 in the first quarter itself, leaving room for very less doubt that they will be the ones to win this matchup. And AD leaving midway made it more obvious than ever.

The Lakers were supposed to be the super team to look out for in the 2021-22 NBA season. So far, they haven’t shown any glimpses of being a title-contending team. Thankfully, the Lakers looked a little more alive in the second quarter as they try to catch up to the double-digit deficit.

Dwight Howard did play against the OKC, but hardly and could only bag 2 points in the eight minutes that he played. This means he definitely needs more time to settle in and can’t expect to pull off a miracle for them after recovering from an injury. Will Lakers fans have to witness another downfall of the purple and gold this year because of something as futile as injuries?

READ MORE: BREAKING: Lakers Coach Reveals “Very Upset” Anthony Davis’ Injury Status Before Crucial Blazers Game