Dwight Howard Will Reportedly Miss Start of Season

Continuing to recover from April back surgery, Dwight Howard told the media on Friday night that he may not be ready for the Lakers’ opening night. ESPN’s Arash Markazi reports: “Howard also was unsure when exactly he would be cleared by doctors to return to the court. Multiple sources told ESPN that Howard is expected to miss the start of the regular season as he continues to recover from back surgery. ‘My health is great,’ Howard said. ‘I’m getting a lot better and a lot stronger every day. I’m looking forward to the doctor saying you are free to play. I can’t wait for that day.’ Howard and Kupchak were optimistic that day could be before the season opener but made no promises. ‘We’ll see what the doctor says,’ Howard said. ‘If I’m ready for opening night I’ll be there but I’m not going to rush it. A back is very serious, so I’m going to take my time and make sure I’m 100 percent because I want to give everybody 100 percent. I want to give everybody everything I have.'”